Abuja, November 11, 2025 — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has vowed to halt all illegal constructions in the nation’s capital, regardless of the individuals or institutions involved, following a tense confrontation with Nigerian Navy personnel in Gaduwa District on Tuesday.
The incident occurred during the Minister’s inspection of an unauthorized development site along the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way corridor, where naval officers allegedly obstructed Wike and his team from accessing the area. The officers reportedly claimed they were acting on orders from a former Chief of Naval Staff, said to be developing the property without the necessary title documents or Development Control approval.
Speaking to journalists after the standoff, Wike condemned the military’s interference, describing it as “an act of lawlessness” and insisting that the FCT Administration (FCTA) would not be intimidated or blackmailed into allowing illegal developments to stand.
“The way we have carried out our job in other areas is the same way it will be done here. He will not carry out this illegal development and land grabbing simply because he was a former Chief of Naval Staff. I will not allow that,” Wike declared.
The Minister explained that he had earlier instructed FCTA officials to stop all activities at the site, but they were chased away by military personnel. “When I was informed that the military had taken over the place, I decided to come myself. It’s really unfortunate. You heard what the officer said — that he was sent by the former Chief of Naval Staff. I don’t understand why someone who attained such a position cannot come to my office to clarify his case instead of resorting to intimidation,” he said.
Wike questioned the deployment of soldiers to protect what he described as a “clear case of illegal development and land grabbing,” emphasizing that such actions undermine the rule of law and the rights of ordinary citizens.
“You can’t have a building without title documents or approval. How can we allow lawlessness to prevail? What happens to those who don’t have military backing? We cannot build a city on impunity,” he stated.
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The Minister revealed that he has contacted the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, both of whom have assured him that the matter would be promptly addressed.
Barr. Wike reiterated that his administration remains committed to enforcing the FCT master plan, regardless of status, rank, or influence, warning that illegal developments will be demolished and those responsible held accountable.
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