Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has defended the ongoing demolitions in Abuja, saying he will not be influenced by those criticizing the actions.
He explained that the buildings being demolished were built illegally on government land.
Wike made his comments while giving operational vehicles to security agencies in Abuja.
He stated that he would not back down from the demolitions, despite the protests, and that the government would continue to remove unauthorized buildings.
Wike mentioned that some of these buildings were a security risk, while others were built on government land without permission.
The former Rivers State governor insisted the government would keep going after illegal structures.
He also said no one, no matter their status, would be allowed to take government land.
“Let me use this opportunity to tell Nigerians and residents of Abuja, we are not afraid of blackmailing.
“In fact, you cannot be in this kind of position and say you cannot be blackmailed particularly as regards this Abuja. There are so many land grabbers. Some of us have come to put our feet down. Let heaven fall. It is even better that heaven comes down now so that we would not be fasting again to go to heaven.”
Meanwhile Senate on Wednesday set up a committee to look into the demolitions while ordering Wike to halt the process.
The group, led by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, will investigate the matter and may invite Wike to explain the actions taken.