The newly inaugurated minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has immediately assumed office on Monday, warning that he will “step on toes” in the course of his duties to restore Abuja’s masterplan.
He also assured FCT residents of plans to tackle insecurity and enforce land development control.
“We are ready to provide logistics to all the security agencies to do their work.
“When I provide the necessary tools [to the security agencies] I don’t want any excuses.
“What we want is results, and that must be done. If we don’t safeguard this place, then we’re in problem.
“Look at people stealing manholes and this and that. Who is responsible? Where are the security people? So something must be done to curtail this.
“The issue of security is the aim for us. Mr President has told me, whatever is required, we must make sure Abuja is safe.
“We are not going to tolerate the issue of markets everywhere. No, we cannot tolerate it. Yes I know that things are difficult, but it doesn’t mean you must cause crisis for other people,” Wike stated.
The minister also warned land racketeers, saying: “If you know you have developed where you’re not supposed to develop, your house must go down.”
He further warned ground rent defaulters of breaching covenants and urged those who have been issued Certificates of Occupancy (CofOs) to develop their lands as they “accommodate criminals in uncompleted buildings.”
“I will step on toes, the big and mighty, I will step on your toes if you’re doing things wrong,” Wike declared.