The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate arrest of the owner of a hotel whose multi-story building collapsed last Friday in Jikwoyi, Abuja. He also directed that the land be seized and repurposed for public use.
During a visit to the site on Monday, Wike revealed that the building had been constructed without approval from the FCT Department of Development Control.
He said the developer ignored repeated stop-work notices issued by the authorities, which led to the collapse.
No deaths were reported, but some people suffered injuries and were treated in hospitals.
Wike noted that the situation could have been worse if the collapse had occurred at a busier time.
The minister stated that the FCT Administration would reclaim the land for public projects.
He added that authorities would prosecute anyone involved in the illegal construction.
He also mentioned that the local community would be consulted to decide what public-use project should be built on the site.
Wike called on all developers to follow building regulations and obtain the necessary approvals before starting any project.
He said proper oversight ensures that construction standards are met and safe materials are used.
He directed relevant agencies to strengthen enforcement, including demolishing structures built without authorization, to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Wike said the government’s priority is the safety of lives and property and warned that violations of construction rules would be met with legal action.
