The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has directed the immediate arrest and prosecution of the owner of a two-storey building that collapsed in Jikwoyi, Abuja on Friday. Wike made the order after inspecting the site on Monday, adding that the government had revoked the 2,500 square metre land allocated to the owner. The partially constructed hotel building collapsed during construction, injuring several workers but claiming no lives. According to Wike, the building had no approval from the FCT Development Control Department despite a stop-work notice being issued. He stated that the government would take over the land and consult the community on its future use.
Wike emphasized that the absence of formal approval meant authorities could not verify the quality of materials used or supervise construction standards. He warned that any building without proper approval would be demolished, directing Development Control to act swiftly rather than just issue notices. The minister advised landowners to follow due process by obtaining necessary permits before construction begins, noting that many builders ignore regulations to erect structures overnight.
The minister's threat to demolish unapproved buildings marks a rare moment of decisive enforcement in Abuja's chaotic construction landscape. While Wike's stance may deter future violations, the collapse itself exposes how routine disregard for safety protocols can turn profit-driven shortcuts into deadly risks. If the government follows through with prosecutions, it could set a precedent—but only if the same rules apply to politically connected developers.
