News

Abuja Building Collapse: Reactions As Wike Orders Owners Arrest, Seizes Land

ByOlamilekan Adigun

PublishedApril 7, 2026

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday, ordered the immediate arrest of the owner of a multi-story hotel that collapsed last Friday in Jikwoyi, Abuja, and announced that the land would be seized for public use.

It would be recalled that the building caved in around 11 a.m. on Friday while workers were on site, triggering an emergency response from relevant authorities.

Wike, who visited the site on Tuesday to assess the damage, said the building was constructed without approval from the FCT Department of Development Control.

He noted that repeated stop-work notices were ignored by the developer, leading to the structural failure.

“There was no approval for the construction of this building.

“Development Control had issued stop-work notices, but the company ignored the notices and continued regardless,” Wike said.

The minister confirmed that while there were no fatalities, several people sustained injuries and were taken to the hospital. He warned that the outcome could have been far worse.

Announcing the government’s plans for the land, Wike said the FCT Administration will take over the land for public use, noting that those responsible for the illegal construction will face prosecution in accordance with the law.

He added that the local community would be consulted to determine a suitable public-purpose project for the reclaimed site.

Emphasising the importance of compliance with building regulations, the minister stressed that approvals allow authorities to monitor construction standards and ensure the use of proper materials.

The minister directed relevant agencies to strengthen enforcement measures, including demolishing structures built without approval, to prevent future incidents.

•IBAN Warns Wike: Apologise to Journalist or Risk Media Boycott

“It is important that we act decisively. Where there is a clear violation, the law must take its course,” Wike said.

He reiterated the administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging developers to adhere strictly to procedures.

He also cautioned that buildings constructed without supervision often rely on sub-standard materials, putting lives at risk.

Meanwhile, reactions have trailed the minister’s announcement.

A Facebook user, Obiagu Obinna said, “Some of the owners know nothing about architectural works. The engineer needs to be arrested first not the owner. Then if the engineer indicts the owner, then you take it up from there.”Another Facebook user, Ibrahim Olaitan, queried Wike for ordering the arrest of the owner of the property.

“So who should the Nigerians arrest for the poor construction of Kugbo bus terminal?”, he asked.

Olamilekan Adigun

Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.