…Deploys Development Control, security agencies over alleged security risks
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered the Department of Development Control and security agencies to move against unauthorised beer parlours and related businesses operating in parts of Asokoro, Abuja, warning that the administration will not tolerate violations of development regulations.
Wike gave the directive in Abuja on Friday after an FCT Executive Council meeting, citing concerns that the businesses could pose security risks if allowed to operate without the necessary approvals.
The minister said the administration had received reports about attempts to establish beer parlours and similar businesses in the area, prompting it to direct the relevant agencies to intervene.
“We will not allow that. There are no such approvals, and we will not allow that,” he said.
He directed Development Control officials to work with security agencies to remove the operators and prevent the situation from developing into a security problem.
Wike said the FCTA was determined to protect public order and ensure that commercial activities within the territory complied with approved planning regulations.
He maintained that no business would be allowed to operate in locations where the required authorisations had not been obtained, adding that the administration would take action against violations.
The minister, however, did not identify the specific locations affected, name the operators involved or provide details of the approvals allegedly lacking.
The directive places responsibility on the relevant regulatory and security agencies to assess the affected locations and enforce applicable rules.
The move comes amid the FCTA’s broader responsibility to regulate land use, development and commercial activities across Abuja to ensure compliance with planning and safety requirements.
