ABUJA — Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the demolition of buildings obstructing waterways across Abuja, warning that the exercise will begin between Tuesday and Saturday.

Wike gave the directive on Tuesday after inspecting areas affected by flooding in the Federal Capital Territory following heavy rainfall.

The minister said the demolition would affect all structures found to be blocking designated water channels, regardless of the status or influence of their owners.

“Between today and Saturday, the buildings blocking the waterways in Abuja will be brought down,” Wike said.

He disclosed that some of the affected properties are reportedly owned by senators and other influential Nigerians, but stressed that the government would not spare any structure found to be obstructing the natural flow of water.

“Some of them are owned by senators and big men. We will demolish all the houses found on the water channels, and heaven will not fall,” the minister said.

The development comes amid renewed concerns over flooding in parts of Abuja following heavy rainfall, with authorities stepping up inspections of flood-prone areas and waterways.

Wike maintained that the government would enforce planning regulations and remove structures considered to be contributing to flooding by obstructing drainage and water channels.

The planned demolition is expected to intensify the FCT Administration’s efforts to tackle flooding and restore waterways across the capital.

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