The Nigerian Senate has directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to suspend ongoing demolition exercises in the FCT, except those ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction, pending an investigation.
The demolitions have sparked controversy, with many residents left without homes.
Wike has vowed to continue the demolition of “shanties” posing security threats. However, Senator Ireti Kingibe alleged that due process was not followed.
An ad-hoc committee chaired by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin will investigate the matter and report back within two weeks. The committee will invite Wike to explain the reasons behind the demolitions.
The Senate also summoned Julius Berger Nigeria PLC’s Managing Director over the company’s refusal to provide details on the Odukpani-Itu Highway project, despite receiving over N18 billion in public funds.
The Senate invoked its constitutional powers to issue a warrant of arrest to compel the Managing Director’s attendance at the rescheduled investigative hearing.