Wike Orders Demolition of Illegal Structures on Diplomatic Land in Katampe

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ordered the demolition of illegal structures erected on land designated for diplomatic missions in the Katampe Extension area of Abuja.

The minister issued the directive after visiting the demolition site on Friday, stressing that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) will not tolerate land grabbing within the nation’s capital.

Land Reserved for Foreign Embassies

According to Wike, the land where the illegal structures were built had been officially allocated in 2008 for the residential use of several foreign embassies.

The diplomatic missions listed as beneficiaries of the allocation include those representing Japan, Thailand, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Syria, Somalia, Serbia and Montenegro, Austria, Senegal, as well as the Palestine Liberation Organization.

The plots were specifically designated as residential areas for diplomats posted to Nigeria.

However, the minister said a private developer illegally encroached on the land and began construction without obtaining approval from the relevant authorities.

Enforcement Against Land Grabbing

Speaking to journalists during the visit, Wike condemned the illegal development and warned that the FCTA would take firm action against anyone attempting to grab public land.

He explained that the Development Control Department had intervened after discovering the unauthorized construction.

According to the minister, authorities could not ignore the violation simply because significant construction had already taken place.

He stressed that protecting the integrity of Abuja’s land administration system remains a priority, especially for areas designated for diplomatic purposes.

Arrest of Developer

Wike also disclosed that the developer allegedly responsible for the illegal construction, identified as Alhaji Kabiru Sahara, has been apprehended by law enforcement authorities.

He said the FCTA is pursuing criminal charges against the developer to serve as a deterrent to others involved in similar activities.

The minister further revealed that the administration would formally notify the affected embassies that the land has been reclaimed.

Infrastructure Projects Underway

Beyond the enforcement exercise, Wike also conducted inspections of several ongoing infrastructure projects across Abuja.

These include major road projects, institutional developments, and urban beautification initiatives in both the city centre and surrounding districts.

The minister disclosed that many of the projects are expected to be completed and ready for inauguration by May 2026.

According to him, the timeline aligns with activities marking the third anniversary of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President of Nigeria.

Efforts to Strengthen Land Administration

Land administration has remained one of the key policy areas under the current FCTA leadership.

Officials say enforcement actions such as the demolition in Katampe are intended to discourage illegal land acquisition and ensure that allocations made for specific purposes are respected.

The development also highlights ongoing concerns about unauthorized construction and land disputes within Abuja’s rapidly expanding urban landscape.

Authorities have reiterated that developers must obtain proper approvals before commencing construction, particularly in sensitive zones such as diplomatic districts.