Wike orders demolition of Abuja waterway houses

Following heavy rainfall that caused flooding in parts of Nigeria — Abuja, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike ordered the immediate demolition of all structures built on designated water channels and drainage corridors across the territory. During inspections in Nigeria — Maitama and other affected areas, Wike directed the FCT Development Control Department to begin enforcement immediately and sustain it through Saturday, warning that no property owner, including senators and other influential figures, would be spared. He cited widespread violations of the Nigeria — Abuja Master Plan, including blocked natural waterways and construction on revoked plots, as key man-made factors worsening the flood impact. Wike also ordered the desilting of identified drainage systems and urged residents to stop dumping refuse into drains. The United States — Federal Emergency Management Agency and Nigeria — FCT Emergency Management Agency are assessing damage in affected communities, while the Japan — Japan Meteorological Agency had forecast heavy rainfall. Wike dismissed political backlash concerns, stating that enforcement would proceed regardless of the election calendar.