Abuja Demolition: Businesses, Residents Count Losses as Wike Moves Against Flood Channels ‎

Residents and Business owners in parts of Maitama, Abuja, are facing the aftermath of a demolition exercise carried out by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) as part of efforts to tackle recurring flooding in the nation’s capital. ‎ ‎

Structures along Mississippi Street were among those affected after FCT Minister Nyesom Wike ordered authorities to remove buildings and other developments considered to be obstructing designated waterways.

The enforcement followed heavy rainfall and flooding recorded in several parts of Abuja. ‎ ‎ Some operators in the affected area said the demolition resulted in significant damage to their businesses and properties.

At Xpresso Café and Resto-Bar, parts of the facility were reportedly pulled down during the operation. ‎ ‎

Business operators also raised concerns about the level of notice given before the exercise.

Some said they were caught off guard when government officials arrived with demolition equipment. ‎

‎Residents and affected businesses acknowledged the need to address flooding and improve the movement of stormwater.

However, some questioned whether the demolition could have been handled in a way that would reduce the losses suffered by property owners and businesses. ‎ ‎The latest enforcement comes after Wike's inspection of flood-affected areas in Abuja.

The minister had directed the FCT Development Control Department to begin removing structures located on or interfering with waterways and said the exercise would continue through Saturday. ‎ ‎Wike has maintained that the government would not make exceptions based on the identity or status of property owners.

He argued that developments blocking natural water channels pose a danger to residents and undermine the city's planning framework. ‎ ‎The FCT Administration is expected to extend the enforcement to other locations identified as having structures obstructing waterways, as authorities combine demolition with efforts to restore drainage channels and improve flood control across Abuja.