The Senate on Thursday instructed the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to immediately cease all property demolitions in Abuja. This directive came in response to concerns regarding alleged irregularities and the hardships faced by residents due to these demolitions.
Additionally, the Senate has summoned Wike to appear before an ad hoc committee established to investigate the demolition activities. Chaired by Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau, the committee has two weeks to report its findings.
The decision was prompted by a motion from Senator Ireti Kingibe (LP – FCT), which received support from Senator Natasha Akpabio-Uduaghan (PDP – Kogi Central). While presenting the resolution, Senate President Godswill Akpabio underscored the necessity of pausing demolitions until proper investigations are concluded.
He stated, “The Senate urges the Federal Capital Development Authority to pause further demolitions of structures, except those sanctioned by competent courts, until the ad hoc committee completes its investigation and consults with the FCT administration within two weeks.”
Senator Kingibe expressed concerns about the demolition process, indicating it often strayed from due procedure. She noted that many individuals have endured significant losses due to demolitions perceived as unjustified. Kingibe specifically cited the ongoing revocation and demolition of Messrs Paulosa Estate, which she claimed had been legally allocated since 1984.
During the discussion, Senator Karimi Sunday (APC – Kogi West) opposed halting demolitions without first hearing from the FCT minister. However, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire (APC – Ondo Central) argued for the motion to stop demolitions, emphasizing fairness and the importance of avoiding irreversible actions during the investigation.
Adegbonmire contended, “Is it fair to allow demolitions to continue while we investigate? The right course is to pause and look into the matter.” Supportive of this view, Akpabio added that continuing demolitions could undermine the investigation process.
The Senate resolved to urge Wike to halt any further demolitions, tasking the ad hoc committee to conduct a thorough investigation. The committee includes prominent senators, who are expected to deliver their findings within two weeks.
In response, Wike asserted that his administration would not be swayed by accusations of land grabbing. Speaking at the handover of operational vehicles to security agencies, he reiterated that the FCT Administration would not ignore land violations.
Wike addressed allegations from social media critic Martins Vincent Otse, who claimed he had revoked land titles belonging to Paullosa Nigeria Ltd for reallocation. Wike dismissed these claims, stating he would not be deterred by public criticism while enforcing proper land management.
He warned those who owe ground rents in the FCT to settle their debts or risk losing their titles. “I will revoke titles for those who have not paid,” he warned, urging compliance with payment deadlines.
Wike also announced plans to establish 12 new police divisions in the FCT before April 2025.
