Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the immediate demolition of houses and other structures found to be obstructing waterways in Abuja.

Wike issued the directive on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, during an inspection of areas affected by flooding in the nation’s capital.

The minister directed the FCT Department of Development Control to begin removing structures erected on designated waterways and drainage channels, stressing that the enforcement would apply to all property owners irrespective of their status.

According to Wike, some of the affected properties belong to influential individuals, including serving and former political office holders, but their status would not prevent the government from enforcing planning regulations.

The directive followed heavy rainfall that caused flooding in several parts of Abuja, raising concerns over the obstruction of drainage channels and the development of properties in areas designated as waterways.

During his inspection in Maitama, Wike reportedly discovered a structure located on a designated drainage corridor. The property had previously been allocated but was revoked in 2011 on grounds of overriding public interest.

The minister said the discovery underscored the need for stronger enforcement of the Abuja Master Plan, particularly against developments that interfere with natural waterways and drainage systems.

He identified construction on waterways, inadequate drainage systems and indiscriminate dumping of waste as some of the factors contributing to flooding in the FCT.

Wike directed relevant FCT agencies to intensify enforcement and ensure that structures obstructing waterways are removed.

He also maintained that the government would not allow political considerations or the influence of property owners to interfere with the enforcement of development regulations in the capital.

The demolition exercise reportedly commenced in Maitama following the minister’s directive, with other areas identified as having structures obstructing waterways expected to be affected.

The FCT Administration has in recent years faced growing concerns over flooding in several districts of Abuja, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

The latest enforcement is therefore expected to form part of broader measures by the FCT Administration to restore drainage channels, protect waterways and reduce the risk of flooding across the nation’s capital.

Wike has repeatedly warned property owners and developers against violating Abuja’s approved development plans, insisting that the government will take action against illegal structures regardless of who owns them.