Abuja Demolitions: Soldiers Allegedly Attack Wike’s Officials, Seize Vehicles

DDM News

The ongoing demolition exercise in Abuja took a dramatic turn on Wednesday when soldiers allegedly attacked officials from the Development Control Department in Sabon Lugbe.

The officials, reportedly acting on orders to remove illegal structures in the area, became targets of violence allegedly orchestrated by a high-ranking military officer.

This development has raised fresh concerns over Nyesom Wike’s controversial urban renewal policy, which has earned him both praise and criticism since assuming the role of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) learned about the incident through eyewitness reports and accounts from officials involved in the operation.

According to their source, the officials had been deployed to remove a fence encroaching on public property at Plot 416, Sabon Lugbe.

The plot, reportedly owned by a Major General, was flagged for violations under Wike’s aggressive campaign to reclaim Abuja’s master plan.

However, the operation quickly escalated into chaos when military personnel intervened.

One of the officials recounted their ordeal, stating, “When the removal was ongoing, the Major General got wind of the exercise and sent two soldiers to the scene to assess the situation.

Upon arrival, the soldiers, using a vehicle with a covered number plate, blocked the exit, effectively trapping the enforcement team within the premises.”

The situation spiraled out of control when one of the soldiers, identified only as Private Jamilu, allegedly cocked his rifle and threatened the caterpillar operator, demanding he step down.

“The operator complied but was immediately assaulted,” the official narrated.

“Private Jamilu and his colleague grabbed him by the neck, tore his shirt, and beat him mercilessly.”

The soldier reportedly fired at the caterpillar’s tires, rendering the vehicle inoperable, before calling the Major General for reinforcements.

The officer allegedly arrived with additional soldiers, escalating tensions further.

“The Major General ordered his men to detain Sector Sodangi, the site officer, and six other enforcement officials,” the source added.

“They were beaten severely, both at the scene and later when they were held hostage for hours.”

This incident underscores the contentious nature of Wike’s demolition drive, which critics describe as heavy-handed and rash.

Since taking office, the former Rivers State governor has faced backlash over his unrelenting approach to urban development, with many labeling his actions as “rascality.”

While supporters argue that the demolitions are necessary to restore order and adherence to the FCT’s master plan, opponents warn that such confrontational tactics risk alienating residents and stakeholders.

The attack on the enforcement team is the latest in a series of incidents highlighting resistance to Wike’s policies.

It also raises questions about the rule of law and the extent of military influence in civil matters.

Observers fear that such clashes could set a dangerous precedent, undermining public trust in governance and emboldening those who flout regulations.

As Abuja grapples with these tensions, the incident at Sabon Lugbe serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding urban reform and the delicate balance between enforcement and stakeholder engagement.

Whether Wike’s approach will ultimately achieve its intended objectives or deepen divisions remains to be seen.

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