FCTA Demolishes Structures to Combat Flooding in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration, under the directive of Minister Nyesom Wike, commenced a demolition exercise aimed at removing buildings encroaching on waterways in Abuja's Maitama District. This action followed significant flooding that affected homes, businesses, and vehicles in the area.

Wike stated that the demolitions would begin immediately and continue until Saturday, regardless of ongoing political activities or the status of property owners, some of whom are influential figures, including senators. He asserted that the structures targeted were not newly constructed and were primarily owned by wealthy Nigerians.

Wike emphasized that social status would no longer hinder the enforcement of development regulations. He also condemned the conversion of designated green areas into other uses and pledged to protect Abuja's environmental assets.

The flooding was exacerbated by the obstruction of a major canal, which residents claimed had been covered for construction linked to a serving senator from the North-East.