Maitama demolition begins as Wike orders removal of structures blocking waterways[VIDEO]

Demolition of buildings allegedly obstructing waterways and drainage channels has commenced in Maitama, Abuja, following a directive by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.

The enforcement exercise is being carried out by the FCT Development Control Department after recent flooding affected several parts of the nation’s capital.

Wike had directed the department to immediately identify and remove structures built on designated waterways, stormwater channels and drainage corridors.

The minister issued the directive during an inspection of flood-affected areas in Abuja, where he warned that the enforcement exercise would apply to all property owners, regardless of their social, political or economic status.

He specifically stated that houses belonging to influential Nigerians, including serving senators and other prominent individuals, would not be exempted if they were found to have been constructed on waterways.

The demolition follows heavy rainfall that caused flooding in parts of Abuja, including Maitama and its surrounding areas.

Several properties were reportedly affected by the flooding, prompting renewed concerns over the state of the capital’s drainage infrastructure and compliance with the Abuja Master Plan.

READ ALSO; Wike: Houses built on Abuja waterways must go, Senators not exempted

Wike said inspections conducted by FCT officials showed that some developments had obstructed natural water channels designated to convey stormwater.

He argued that such obstructions had contributed to the flooding by restricting the natural flow of water during periods of heavy rainfall.

The minister also directed relevant agencies to commence the immediate desilting and clearing of identified drainage systems.

He warned residents and traders against dumping refuse in waterways, stressing that blocked drainage channels and poor maintenance could worsen the impact of heavy rainfall.

Wike maintained that the enforcement exercise would not be influenced by the identity or political connections of property owners.

He said structures that violated the city’s planning regulations would be removed, irrespective of whether their owners were politicians, wealthy individuals or other influential persons.

The minister also acknowledged that flooding could have natural causes, including unusually heavy rainfall and climate-related changes, but maintained that human activities had significantly aggravated the problem.

The ongoing exercise is expected to extend beyond Maitama to other areas where buildings and developments have been identified as obstructing waterways and drainage corridors.

The development has also reignited debate over urban planning and development control in Abuja, with residents and experts calling for stricter enforcement of the city’s master plan.

Urban planning experts have warned that allowing construction on natural drainage routes can increase flood risks, particularly as urban expansion reduces open spaces through which stormwater can naturally flow.

They have also stressed the need for a coordinated approach involving demolition of illegal structures, restoration of waterways, regular drainage maintenance and improved waste management.

As the Maitama demolition continues, attention is expected to focus on the scale of the enforcement exercise and whether it will be sustained across other flood-prone parts of the Federal Capital Territory.