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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has directed the immediate arrest of the developer linked to a two-storey building that collapsed in Jikwoyi on Friday.
Wike also ordered that the land be seized and repurposed for public use, warning that all those involved in the unauthorised construction would face prosecution.
During an inspection of the site, the minister stated that the building was erected without approval from the FCT Department of Development Control, despite several stop-work notices issued to the developer.
“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.
“Despite the lack of formal approval, the company proceeded with construction, leading to the eventual structural failure. It is important that we act decisively. Where there is a clear violation, the law must take its course,” he said.
He added that the local community would be consulted to determine a suitable public project for the reclaimed land.
The minister stressed the importance of strict adherence to building regulations, noting that proper approvals allow authorities to supervise construction standards and ensure the use of appropriate materials.
Wike also instructed relevant agencies to intensify enforcement, including demolishing structures built without approval, to avert similar incidents in future.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, he warned developers to comply strictly with established procedures or face sanctions.
The collapse left several construction workers injured. According to the FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD), 17 workers were on the upper floor when the structure gave way.
Five workers sustained injuries, while another male worker at ground level was trapped but later rescued.
The Head of Public Affairs at FEMD, Nkechi Isa, said rescue operations were swiftly launched to ensure no victims remained trapped under the debris.
Emergency responders at the scene included personnel from FEMD, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Department of Development Control, the Engineering Department of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Federal Fire Service, and the FCT Police Command.
