Drama in the Senate: Wike Ordered to Halt Demolitions Amid Heated Debate and Walkout

By Achimi Muktar

In a dramatic session of the Senate on Thursday, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, was directed to suspend the ongoing demolition of buildings in Abuja, barring those sanctioned by court orders. This decision followed a heated debate, a staged walkout, and an eventual apology by Senator Ireti Kingibe, who spearheaded the motion.

The controversy centers on the demolition activities in Abuja since Wike assumed office, which Senator Kingibe claims have not followed proper legal processes. Presenting her motion, Kingibe highlighted the hardship inflicted on FCT residents, including homelessness and the revocation of properties such as the late Colonel Paul Osa Ogbebor’s estate in the Life Camp area.

“These demolitions are causing untold suffering to the people,” Kingibe argued, urging her colleagues to intervene. Her motion called for the suspension of further demolitions and an investigation into the actions taken by the FCT administration.

Senate Divided on Wike’s Actions

While some senators, including Natasha Apoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, backed Kingibe’s call for a halt, others argued that Wike was within his rights to enforce urban planning regulations. Kogi West Senator Karmi Sunday emphasized the need to hear from Wike, while Senate Deputy Leader Oyelola Ashiru defended the demolitions, stating, “We cannot stop the minister from doing his work. He is cleaning the city.”

Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged the chamber to adopt a balanced approach. “Let us try not to be emotional with issues,” Akpabio cautioned, noting that some demolitions had been court-ordered due to illegal structures. However, he ultimately supported the motion, instructing Wike to suspend further actions pending a Senate investigation.

Ad Hoc Committee to Probe Demolitions

The Senate constituted an eight-member committee led by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin to investigate the demolitions. The committee includes notable senators such as Victor Umeh (Anambra Central), Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South), and Idiat Adebule (Lagos West). Their mandate is to liaise with the FCT administration and provide a comprehensive report.

Walkout and Apology: Kingibe’s Protest

Tensions escalated when Senator Kingibe staged a walkout after she was initially blocked from presenting her motion. Accusing the Senate’s Committee on Rules and Business of failing to include her motion on the order paper, Kingibe angrily left the chamber, packing her belongings.

Efforts to resolve the standoff ensued, with Akpabio sending senators to persuade her to return. When Kingibe re-entered the chamber, Akpabio demanded an apology for her conduct. After initial resistance, Kingibe complied, addressing her colleagues and proceeding with the motion.

A Closer Look at Wike’s Approach

Wike’s tenure as FCT Minister has been marked by aggressive urban renewal initiatives. Critics argue that his methods, particularly the demolitions, disregard legal and humanitarian considerations. Proponents, however, praise his efforts to restore order to the capital.

The Senate’s directive represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate about governance and urban development in Abuja. As the ad hoc committee begins its work, all eyes are on Wike and the outcomes of this Senate intervention.

Stay tuned as the story unfolds, with the fate of Abuja’s urban landscape hanging in the balance.