The Federal Capital Territory Administration has commenced the demolition of houses and other structures built on designated waterways and flood channels in Abuja.
The exercise began in Maitama on Tuesday, shortly after FCT Minister Nyesom Wike ordered the immediate removal of structures obstructing natural water passages.
Wike issued the directive after inspecting flood-affected areas in Maitama District, warning that the demolition would affect properties regardless of the status or political affiliation of their owners.
The minister said some affected structures belonged to senators and other prominent individuals but insisted that no property built on a water channel would be spared.
He also directed the FCT Department of Development Control to identify and remove structures obstructing drainage routes across the capital.
Wike attributed flooding in Abuja partly to climate change and heavy rainfall but identified illegal construction on waterways, poor enforcement of building regulations and indiscriminate waste disposal as major contributors.
He announced plans to immediately desilt blocked drainages while accelerating infrastructure projects, including the Lokogoma road project.
The minister urged residents to support the administration’s urban renewal efforts and dispose of waste properly to prevent blocked drains.
He also denied allegations that the FCT Administration had allocated waterways for estate development.
