Developers who flout building regulations in Abuja will now pay the cost of demolishing their illegal structures, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has warned.
The Director, Department of Development Control, Tpl. Mukhtar Galadima, issued the warning on Thursday during the removal of 11 duplexes erected under high-tension lines and beside a stream channel at Garba Duba Street in Dutse District.
Galadima said the FCTA was tired of spending public funds on demolitions triggered by people’s disregard for planning laws. “Henceforth, any offender will bear the cost of mobilization to site. If you ignore stop-work notices, we’ll allow you to waste your money and then bring it down,” he warned.
He explained that the developers had applied for approval but were denied due to safety concerns, yet proceeded to build despite several stop-work notices and official letters.
“They were told clearly that the location was unsafe too close to a high-tension line and stream channel but they defied the law,” Galadima said.
He revealed that the illegal structures were also obstructing a proposed bridge project. “When our engineering department reminded them of the proposed bridge, they still refused to stop, so we had no option but to enforce compliance,” he stated.
While acknowledging that the demolished plots were statutorily allocated, Galadima said the Administration might consider alternative sites for the owners if they make a formal request.
He advised residents to always seek clarification from relevant authorities before embarking on construction, stressing that “a responsible developer must respect the law and ensure safety for all.”
