During an on-the-spot evaluation of the collapsed structure on Thursday, Wike ordered relocation.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike ordered the immediate arrest of the landlord of the two-story building that collapsed at Lagos Crescent, Garki 2, Abuja.
During an on-the-spot evaluation of the collapsed structure on Thursday, Wike ordered relocation.
He said, “It is not as if somebody has a personal vengeance but for us to do the right thing. I don’t know why the FCTA hasn’t resettled them yet, therefore we’ll take quick action to resettle the locals and then the government must plan this place.
“The government says take a building plan to safeguard everyone, not to hurt them. Plans for cities prevent these events. Imagine unapproved buildings. I request identification and arrest of the property owner. Very important.
The government will take control this land and prevent future growth. All stakeholders should work with the government for everyone’s benefit. No one here has said I like A, not B. He noted that government policies may not be popular, but they benefit the public in the long run.
Wike praised the rescue efforts, stating, “It’s terrible that we woke this morning to the very disturbing news of this building fall. Not what we planned. Let me thank NEMA and FEMA for helping us save 37 lives. Two people died, which is unfortunate.
Second, as we’ve said, nobody knows whose turn it will be, so when the government says it will act, we believe there are illegal developments or buildings that don’t meet codes.
“We are all here and none of us is happy, therefore these are the things we are trying to prevent. I grieve with those who died; the government will pay all hospital fees. He continued, “We will help the rescue efforts and ensure they reach the last level and rescue everyone trapped in the wreckage.”
Unconfirmed deaths and hospitalised people are forcing rescue efforts. They include fatally injured victims.