The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has stated why he clashed with personnel of the Nigerian military over land access in Abuja.
Speaking to newsmen on the incident, Wike stated that he only intervened after top officials of the FCT Administration were assaulted while carrying out their official duties.
According to him, as a Minister, he would not sit in his office while those working with him are being attacked.
He added that the confrontation arose after FCT officials were allegedly assaulted while enforcing development control regulations on the disputed site.
The Minister stressed the importance of adhering to due process in resolving disputes over land ownership in Abuja, declaring that he will continue to respect all government institutions, including the military.
Wike urged Nigerians to learn to obey the laws, adding that the government will not tolerate any attempt to undermine approved land allocations.
“The land in question was properly allocated to Santos Estate Limited for park and recreational purposes, not residential development.
“When the Police had a similar issue, l personally visited the site where buildings were being constructed under the power line. The Inspector-General of Police ensured the stoppage of the construction,” he said.
