The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to meet with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, following the demolition of duplexes allegedly owned by the Nigeria Police Force in the Apo Dutse District of Abuja.
The duplexes, reportedly constructed under a high-tension power line, were pulled down by officials of the FCT Department of Development Control on Thursday. The exercise led to the arrest of some department staff by the police.
During an on-site inspection of the demolished area on Friday, Wike expressed dismay that the illegal structures were erected despite multiple warnings and the denial of development approval by the appropriate authorities.
“It’s unfortunate,” Wike said. “Yesterday, I got a call from Development Control that they had to stop some buildings from going on. You can see the high-tension line — it’s dangerous. The land was given to the Nigerian Police, and they applied for approval, but Development Control refused because of the high-tension risk.”
The minister added that the refusal was ignored, forcing the FCT authorities to act. “Unfortunately, our officers were arrested by the Nigerian Police, and that’s why I have to take this matter up with the IGP. I’m sure he may not be aware, but we cannot allow this,” he stated.
Wike emphasized that no institution or individual is above the law, stressing that government regulations must be respected to protect lives and maintain order.
“The government cannot allow anyone to break the rules,” he said. “Look at the high-tension line — how would anybody take such a risk? Even if there was no high-tension line, once you are denied approval, you cannot go ahead as if you are above the law.”
The FCT Administration has maintained that the demolition was carried out in line with safety and urban planning regulations, warning that future violations of building codes will be met with similar enforcement action.
