The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has condemned what he described as an illegal occupation of land by some soldiers in Abuja, allegedly acting on the orders of a former Chief of Naval Staff.
Wike visited the site personally on Tuesday after receiving reports that armed soldiers had chased away officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) who were enforcing a stop-work order on a disputed plot of land. “No one is above the law. Even a former military chief cannot use his influence to violate the law. Abuja operates under the rule of law, and the law must prevail,” Wike said during the visit.
According to the Minister, FCTA officials had requested the land documents and building approval from those developing the area, but none were provided. Consequently, he ordered an immediate suspension of all construction activities on the site until a full investigation is completed.
Wike added that he had already spoken with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, who both assured him that the matter would be properly investigated to prevent similar incidents in the future. “We are not at war with the military, but we will not tolerate anyone obstructing law enforcement. Whether a former naval chief or not, the law applies to everyone,” Wike stressed.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to restoring order, legality, and transparency in the management of Abuja lands, warning that the FCTA will continue to reclaim all plots illegally acquired or occupied, no matter who is involved.