‘Let Heaven Fall,’ Wike Vows To Continue Demolitions In FCT Amid Backlash

By Samaila Emmanuel Bzugu

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has reaffirmed his commitment to demolishing illegal structures in Abuja, dismissing criticisms and blackmail as he defends the actions of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).

Wike emphasized that the demolitions are aimed at eliminating properties built on government land without proper authorization

Speaking at the FCTA Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday during the distribution of operational vehicles to security agencies, Wike emphasized that the demolitions are aimed at eliminating properties built on government land without proper authorization.

“Let me use this opportunity to tell Nigerians and residents of Abuja, we are not afraid of blackmailing,” Wike stated firmly. “In fact, you cannot be in this kind of position and say you cannot be blackmailed particularly as regards this Abuja. There are so many land grabbers. Some of us have come to put our feet down. Let heaven fall. It is even better that heaven comes down now so that we would not be fasting again to go to heaven.”

Let heaven fall. It is even better that heaven comes down now so that we would not be fasting again to go to heaven

In recent months, the FCTA has ramped up efforts to demolish structures deemed illegal, targeting both shanties and estates across the capital. Wike explained that many of these buildings not only violate government regulations but also pose security risks to the residents of Abuja.

Despite facing significant backlash and protests from affected residents, Wike has vowed to continue the demolition campaign. “We would stop anybody who thinks they will take government land for whatever reason with formal approval. We would not look at your face. If you like be a civil rights activist or a television personality,” he declared. “What is wrong is wrong; no amount of blackmail can stop us. People take government property without approval or documentation.”

Wike’s statements come in the wake of a Senate investigation launched into the demolitions. Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the FCT, raised concerns about the impact of these actions and called for a halt to the demolitions. In response, the Senate has established a committee led by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin to investigate the matter and invite Wike for clarification on the ongoing operations.

The fate of many structures in the FCT hangs in the balance

As the tug-of-war between government authorities and residents continues, the fate of many structures in the FCT hangs in the balance, with Wike remaining steadfast in his position to reclaim government land and uphold regulatory compliance.