The Department of Development Control, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has strongly cautioned former owners of 165 lands that were revoked in the FCT to refrain from accessing or developing these properties, as they could face legal consequences.
The Director of the Department, Mukhtar Galadima, issued this warning in Abuja after his team successfully hindered an attempt by some of the landowners in Maitama, Abuja, to continue construction on the revoked lands. Galadima expressed his concern over these individuals’ disregard for the revocation order in place.
Taking decisive action, officials from the development control department, accompanied by security personnel, confiscated construction equipment discovered on the sites. Additionally, they arrested some workers for further interrogation and expelled others from the premises.
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had revoked these 165 plots of land due to the landowners’ failure to develop the properties. The revocation was a result of continuous violations of the terms of the agreements outlined in section 28(5) (a) and (b) of the Land Use Act.
“It is regrettable that despite the revocation, some individuals are attempting to resume work on these properties, especially during weekends,” lamented Galadima. “We received information that the owners of these revoked lands were violating the order by returning to the site. We are conducting this operation to ensure that nobody regains access or undertakes any activities on the revoked plots.”
Furthermore, Galadima issued a stern warning to the public, stating, “Anyone who disregards the revocation and attempts to develop these properties will not only face the demolition of such structures but also prosecution by the FCTA.”
When asked about potential legal proceedings initiated by the affected landowners, Galadima responded, “I am not aware of any legal action taken in court. If, indeed, someone has taken the matter to court, then it will be up to the court to decide. However, at present, I have no knowledge of any such cases.”
The FCTA is resolute in its commitment to uphold the revocation order and ensure compliance with the law. The warning issued serves as a clear message to those attempting to reclaim their revoked lands that such actions will not be tolerated by the authorities.
NAN
