By Adekoya Samson, Abuja
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has spoken publicly following a brief but tense encounter with soldiers during an inspection of a disputed parcel of land in Abuja.
The incident, which occurred while the minister was assessing ongoing development control activities, drew public attention after videos surfaced showing soldiers questioning the presence of FCTA officials on the site.
Addressing the matter, Wike clarified that all land within the FCT falls under the authority of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, adding that no individual or agency—including the military—has the right to allocate, fence, or occupy land without the proper approvals.
“There is only one authority that manages land in the FCT, and that is the FCTA,” Wike stated. “No amount of intimidation will stop us from reclaiming lands that were illegally acquired or occupied. Abuja must be governed by law.”
The minister explained that the disputed land had previously been marked for government use before it was encroached upon. He noted that development control officials, acting on directives, were carrying out enforcement when they were confronted by personnel believed to be attached to a nearby military facility.
Wike emphasized that the clash was “unnecessary” and could have escalated if not for the restraint shown by civil authorities. “We respect the Nigerian military and its sacrifices,” he said, “but that respect cannot be used to justify breaking the law or obstructing legitimate administrative duties.”
He assured residents that the FCTA would continue its ongoing demolition of illegal structures and reclaiming of encroached lands across the territory. According to him, the administration’s stance on land recovery is aimed at restoring Abuja’s master plan, ensuring safety, and preventing unregulated settlements.
Security agencies have reportedly opened communication channels to prevent a repeat of such confrontations.
The minister reiterated that the FCTA remains committed to collaborating with all institutions—including the armed forces—while insisting that no agency is exempt from following due process in land matters.
“Abuja belongs to all Nigerians,” Wike said. “Our responsibility is to protect it, and we will not compromise on that.”
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