By Faridat Salifu
The Federal Capital Territory Administration has intensified efforts to reclaim public safety and urban order by targeting illegal structures built on flood-prone land in Guzape District, Abuja.
During a Monday inspection, the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) ordered the demolition of 24 unapproved two-storey buildings developed by Cityscape Estate on Plot 4851, directly on a waterway.
The AMMC Coordinator, Chief Felix Obuah, who led the tour, stated that the structures violated the Abuja Master Plan and lacked statutory development approvals.
He warned that the ongoing construction, deemed hazardous and illegal, would not be allowed to stand.
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“This is not just about unlawful building. It is about protecting lives and ensuring our city develops in accordance with environmental and planning regulations,” Obuah said.
Officials disclosed that only 18 buildings were approved, yet 42 were erected. One building was brought down during the visit. The remaining developers have been given a two-week grace period to voluntarily remove the others or face full-scale demolition.
The FCTA has also vowed to sanction any council officials complicit in the violation — whether through negligence or corrupt approval practices.
Director of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, noted that part of the land was affected by the planned S20 road project and warned that compensation parcels were never a free pass to bypass due process.
Chairman of the FCT Building Contravention Taskforce, Gabriel Musa, affirmed that full compliance was non-negotiable. Developer Mr. Kadiri Obaidi admitted the violation and blamed some subscribers, pledging to carry out a controlled demolition at his own cost.
The move aligns with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s campaign to restore order and eliminate illegal development, particularly in areas susceptible to flooding.
