Wike to meet IGP after demolition of duplexes belonging to Nigeria’s police

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to meet with the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, following the demolition of a series of duplexes built under high-tension power lines in the Apo Dutse District of Abuja, reportedly owned by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

A statement issued by the minister’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, revealed that Wike made this known during an on-the-spot visit to the demolition site on Friday.

He explained that the affected buildings were erected despite repeated warnings and the refusal of development approval by the FCT Department of Development Control.

On Thursday, officials from the department had pulled down no fewer than eleven flats—comprising three- and four-bedroom units—in the area. The operation was followed by the arrest of some Development Control staff by the police.

“Well, it’s unfortunate. Yesterday, I got a call from Development Control that they had to come here to stop some buildings from going on,” Wike said.“You can see the high-tension line, and that is dangerous. The land was given to the Nigerian Police, and they applied for approval, but Development Control refused because of the high-tension risk.

“They refused to stop, and Development Control had to act. Unfortunately, our officers were arrested by the Nigerian Police, and that’s why I have to take this matter up with the IGP. I’m sure he may not be aware, but we cannot allow this.

“The government cannot allow anyone to break the rules. Look at the high-tension line. How would anybody take such a risk? Even if there was no high-tension line, once you are denied approval, you cannot go ahead as if you are above the law.”