Buildings found to be obstructing waterways and drainage channels in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, will be demolished between Tuesday and Saturday, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has said.
Mr Wike made the announcement on Tuesday after inspecting areas affected by flooding following heavy rainfall across parts of the FCT.
The minister said the demolition would affect structures built on designated water channels, regardless of the status or influence of their owners.
“Between today and Saturday, the buildings blocking the waterways in Abuja will be brought down,” Mr Wike said.
He added that some of the affected properties were reportedly owned by senators and other prominent individuals.
“We will demolish all the houses found on the water channels, and heaven will not fall,” he said.
The minister’s comments come amid growing concerns over flooding in several parts of Abuja, with heavy rainfall causing significant disruption and raising questions about the adequacy of drainage systems across the capital.
Mr Wike said the government would not allow political influence or the status of property owners to stand in the way of efforts to protect residents and address the causes of flooding.
The planned demolitions are expected to target buildings identified by the FCT authorities as having been constructed on waterways or in areas required for the free flow of storm water.
The minister’s directive signals a tougher approach by the FCT administration towards buildings and developments considered to be contributing to flooding in the capital.
