Flood: Some level of madness needed to contain those blocking water channel

Minister Nyesom Wike of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has pledged to persist with the demolition of homes and structures built on waterways in Abuja, irrespective of the property owners' circumstances. Addressing the situation after inspecting ongoing projects in the capital, Wike emphasized that the Federal Capital Territory Administration had only just begun a broader enforcement operation to restore the Abuja Master Plan and prevent flooding.

He assured that the demolition drive would expand to other parts of the FCT where illegal structures have obstructed natural water channels or breached planning regulations. "We've only just started, and we'll move to another area. We're not ending where we started yesterday," Wike stated. The administration remains unwavering in its commitment to enforcing planning regulations, with no intention to retreat from the exercise.

Wike clarified that structures constructed directly on waterways pose a threat to entire communities by obstructing water flow and increasing flood risks. He dismissed complaints of due process violations, arguing that removing obstructive structures is essential for public safety. "You can't build on a water channel that's affecting the whole community, and then claim I'm not following due process," Wike asserted.

The minister vowed that the FCT Administration would not allow personal interests to outweigh public safety and the city's planning laws. On Tuesday, the FCT Administration commenced demolitions in Maitama, in line with Wike's orders. The minister's actions stem from his concern over flooding affecting certain parts of Abuja. Additionally, Wike questioned the Director of Urban Planning regarding approvals granted for converting designated green areas into car sales outlets.

He expressed worry about the indiscriminate transformation of public green spaces, parks, and recreational areas into commercial sites. Wike announced a temporary ban on car sales activities in public green spaces across the FCT and formed a special task force to enforce the removal of vehicle dealers operating from these areas.

He instructed car dealers to establish legally approved commercial properties for their businesses, warning against the misuse of spaces intended for public recreation and ecological purposes. Wike pledged to continue the enforcement campaign until illegal structures and activities that violate the Abuja Master Plan are addressed.

He assured residents that the FCT Administration would maintain the effort across the territory, aiming to enhance urban planning, safeguard communities from flooding, and restore order to the nation's capital.