By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate arrest of the owner of the collapsed building in Jikwoyi, Abuja, following last Friday’s incident.
The minister also announced the takeover of the plot where the multi-storey structure, reportedly intended as a hotel, caved in, declaring that the land would now be put to public use.
Wike, who conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the site on Monday, said the building was erected without approval from the FCT Department of Development Control.
He disclosed that officials had issued multiple stop-work notices to the developer, which were ignored, leading to the eventual collapse of the structure.
“There was no approval for the construction of this building,” the minister said, adding that the developer proceeded in defiance of regulatory directives.
Despite the absence of fatalities, Wike noted that several persons sustained injuries and were taken to hospital, warning that the outcome could have been far worse.
He stressed that those responsible for the illegal construction would be prosecuted in line with the law, as part of efforts to enforce compliance and deter future violations.
The minister further stated that the FCT Administration would engage the host community to determine a suitable public project for the reclaimed land.
Wike emphasised the importance of obtaining proper approvals, noting that regulatory oversight helps ensure adherence to building standards and the use of appropriate materials.
He directed relevant agencies to intensify enforcement, including the demolition of illegal structures, to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
Reiterating the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the minister urged developers to comply strictly with laid-down procedures or face sanctions.
