Wike orders arrest of developer, revokes land after Abuja building collapse

Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has ordered the arrest of a developer and the revocation of a plot of land in Abuja following the collapse of an unapproved multi-storey hotel building in Jikwoyi.

Wike, who conducted an on-site inspection on Tuesday, said the structure was built without approval from the FCT Department of Development Control and in defiance of multiple stop-work directives.

The minister said the developer ignored regulatory warnings and continued construction, which ultimately led to the building’s failure.

“There was no approval for the construction of this building,” Wike said during the visit. “Development Control had issued stop-work notices, but the company ignored them and proceeded regardless.”

No fatalities were recorded in the incident, but several persons sustained injuries and were taken to hospital. Wike noted that the outcome could have been significantly worse.

He said the FCT Administration would take over the land for public use, while those responsible for the illegal development would be prosecuted in line with extant laws.

According to him, authorities will engage the host community to determine a suitable public-purpose project for the reclaimed land.

Wike stressed the importance of regulatory compliance in the construction sector, noting that approval processes enable oversight of building standards and ensure the use of appropriate materials.

He directed relevant agencies to intensify enforcement, including the demolition of structures erected without approval, as part of efforts to curb infractions and prevent similar incidents.

“It is important that we act decisively. Where there is clear violation, the law must take its course,” he said.

The minister reiterated the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, warning developers to comply strictly with laid-down procedures or face sanctions.