By Ismaila Jimoh, Abuja
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike has ordered takeover of the plot of land where a multi-story hotel building collapsed in Jikwoyi area of Abuja last Friday.
Wike gave this directive when he visited the area on Tuesday, saying the owner will be arrested and prosecuted for engaging in a building without legal authorization.
According to the Minister, the collapse occurred after the developer repeatedly ignored “stop-work” notices issued by the Department of Development Control.
“Despite the lack of formal approval, the company proceeded with construction, leading to the eventual structural failure.
”There was no approval for the construction of this building,” the Minister stated during a site visit.
“Development Control had issued notice to not continue, but the company hesitated and continued regardless”, he stated.
While no lives were lost in the incident, several individuals sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment at a local hospital.
The Minister emphasized that the government’s primary concern is the safety of lives, noting that buildings constructed without supervision often utilize sub-standard materials.
According to him,the developer will face criminal prosecution for violating building regulations and endangering the public.
In response to the contravention, the FCTA has declared that the FCT Administration will take over the plot of land immediately.
Also, the government plans to consult with the local community to determine a suitable public-purpose project to be built on the reclaimed land.
The Minister issued a “zero-tolerance” warning to other developers across the FCT who bypass legal channels. He directed the Department of Development Control to move beyond merely serving notices and to begin the immediate demolition of unauthorized structures.
”Anywhere you see a building going on without approval, do not hesitate. “If they continue after being served, you come and bring the building down in order to save lives”, the Minister instructed officials.
Addressing rumors of possible internal conivance, the Minister clarified that in this specific case, no approval existed at any level, placing the full weight of the liability on the developer.
He urged citizens to follow the “simple process” of obtaining approvals to ensure that materials—such as cement and sand mixtures—meet safety standards before construction begins.
