The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, said a private developer's work damaged a major pipe in the FCT water project, causing the current water shortage in parts of Abuja. He made the comments on Wednesday after inspecting ongoing construction sites and speaking to journalists in the capital.
Wike explained that he was informed the pipe was broken because of a private development, and that the FCT Water Board is "working tirelessly to make sure that the pipe is put back for use." He added that the administration is doing everything possible to restore supply to the affected areas.
The minister announced he will visit the site on Thursday to assess the damage and decide whether the private developer should face sanctions. He warned that "if it means that I have to shut down the project, I will shut it down because you cannot suffer the public and you are freely going about to develop your own property."
Wike appealed for public patience, stressing that the fault lies with the private developer but the administration has no excuse for not fixing the pipe. (NAN) Edited by Yakubu Uba
Wike's willingness to halt a private construction project underscores the seriousness with which the FCT administration views any interference with essential infrastructure.
The incident reveals a clash between rapid private development and the fragile state of public utilities in Abuja, where a single damaged pipe can disrupt water supply for thousands. By publicly attributing blame to the developer, Wike signals that private interests will be held accountable when they jeopardise public services.
Residents in the affected districts can expect continued water interruptions until the pipe is repaired, and they may face further inconvenience if the minister proceeds with a shutdown of the offending development.
The episode fits a broader pattern of infrastructure challenges in Nigeria, where uncoordinated private projects often collide with inadequate regulatory oversight, prompting authorities to intervene more forcefully.
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