The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered the arrest of the owner of a building that collapsed in Jikwoyi on April 3, and directed the revocation of the land on which the structure stood.
Speaking to journalists during an inspection of the site on Tuesday, April 7, the Minister disclosed that the developer had commenced construction of a two-storey hotel without obtaining the requisite building approval. He noted that officials of the Development Control Department had earlier issued stop-work notices, which were allegedly ignored.
“Despite the lack of formal approval, the company proceeded with construction, leading to the eventual structural failure. Development Control had issued stop-work notices, but the company disregarded them,” Wike said.
The Minister condemned what he described as a persistent disregard for building regulations, warning that any structure erected without approval would face demolition. He, however, noted that no lives were lost in the incident, adding that the owner would be arrested and prosecuted.
Wike further announced that the revoked land would be repurposed for community development, with consultations to be held with residents to determine an appropriate public-use project.
He emphasized the importance of adhering to established building procedures, stressing that regulatory approvals enable authorities to monitor construction standards and ensure the use of appropriate materials.
The Minister also directed relevant agencies to intensify enforcement, including the demolition of illegal structures, to prevent similar incidents.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, Wike urged developers to comply strictly with regulations, warning that defaulters would face legal consequences.
