Demolition In FCT: “The FCT is not like the Ministry of Works; it is an Administration–Daniel Bwala
In a report from Channels TV dated August 31, 2023, it’s highlighted that Daniel Bwala, a spokesperson for the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Council during the 2023 elections, has responded to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), regarding his threat to demolish buildings not aligned with the original Master Plan of Abuja.
During his appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Bwala expressed the opinion that Minister Wike should prioritize more essential matters over the demolition of structures.
Bwala contended that if the FCT were to strictly adhere to the original Master Plan, significant government assets such as Aso Villa, the seat of power, would also need to be demolished.
He stated, “The FCT operates differently from the Ministry of Works; it is an Administration. There are more critical aspects to FCT’s administration than just demolition,” Bwala argued.
Discussing the idea of demolition, Bwala emphasized, “If we focus on the original Master Plan, it’s worth noting that the Aso Villa, where the President resides, is not part of the original plan and should be removed.”
He further explained, “Similarly, the military barracks present within the FCT were not part of the original Master Plan; hence, they should also be taken down.”
“Additionally, the well-known Asokoro and its extension, housing liaison offices or private homes of various Nigerian governors, are not originally planned and must be demolished. Several federal government assets and buildings in strategic locations do not adhere to the original Master Plan,” Bwala elaborated.
Acknowledging the capacity of Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, to effectively perform as a minister, Bwala urged him to approach matters without confrontation and work towards achieving his goals.
Following his appointment as FCT minister by President Bola Tinubu on August 21, 2023, Wike issued a warning about demolishing properties that dete from the Master Plan of Abuja.
During his appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program on Wednesday, Wike reiterated that elite individuals responsible for altering the FCT’s original plan should brace themselves for the demolition of their properties.
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