Wike Reaffirms Commitment to Due Process amid Abuja Land Dispute

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has restated his commitment to enforcing due process in all land matters across Abuja, stressing that no individual or institution is above the law.

Addressing journalists on Thursday over a recent clash between his officials and some military personnel, Wike said the administration will not tolerate any attempt to disregard legally approved land allocations or undermine constituted authority.

The minister explained that the confrontation occurred when officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) were allegedly attacked while enforcing development control regulations at a disputed site.

“My officials were assaulted while carrying out their lawful duties. I couldn’t sit back and watch that happen,” Wike said. “As minister, I have a responsibility to defend them and ensure government directives are followed.”

Wike said his intervention was necessary to restore order and uphold the integrity of government processes. He clarified that the land in question had been properly allocated to Santos Estate Limited for park and recreational purposes, not for residential buildings.

Recalling a similar episode involving the police, Wike noted that he had previously visited another disputed site where structures were being erected directly beneath a power line. He said the Inspector-General of Police later intervened and ordered an immediate halt to construction.

The minister reaffirmed that his administration would continue to enforce urban planning laws across the FCT, adding that the rule of law must guide every development activity in the capital city.