Land Grabbers: Minister orders maximum security for FCTA demolition team

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has directed security agencies to provide maximum security to the FCT Administration’s team, currently demolishing illegal properties in Sabon Lugbe constructed by land grabbers.

Wike gave the directive when he visited the demolition site in Abuja on Tuesday, along with Guards Brigade Commander and Director, FCT Security Services Department.

Other security agencies in the entourage are Commissioner of Police, FCT, Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps and other FCTA officials.

The FCTA Department of Development Control had on Oct.17, begun demolition of illegal buildings on lands that were illegally acquired by land grabbers.

A total of 50 duplexes and bungalows were being demolished to ensure total recovery of the land.

Wike expressed dismay that the investors moved into the site and commenced development without relevant approvals.

Fuming, the Minister insisted that all land must be recovered from the grabbers.

He directed security agencies to ensure that all threats around the areas were removed to pave the way for the demolition team to carry out their work.

Noting that that land was already dotted with about 50 duplexes and bungalows of different designs, Wike challenged the developers who claimed to have acquired necessary approvals to come forward with the documents.

According to the Minister, the FCT Administration will not condone any act of illegal acquisition of lands and contravention of procedures for development.

Recalled that the Director of Development Control, Mr Mukhtar Galadima, who led the exercise, had explained that the structures were illegally erected by land grabbers without approval of appropriate authorities.

Galadima explained that the illegal construction in the southwest area of Sabon Lugbe was part of Phase 5 District of the Federal Capital City (FCC).

He said that the department had warned that it would bounce on land grabbers in the area and advised people against buying any property without due diligence to ensure its legality.