The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has directed the immediate arrest of the owner of a hotel building that collapsed last Friday in Jikwoyi, Abuja.
He also ordered that the property be taken over by authorities and converted for public use.
During an inspection of the site, Wike disclosed that the structure was erected without approval from the FCT Department of Development Control and that the developer had ignored multiple stop-work orders issued by officials.
Although no fatalities were recorded, several individuals sustained injuries and received medical treatment.
The minister noted that the outcome could have been far more severe had the incident occurred during peak activity hours.
Wike affirmed that the FCT Administration would reclaim the land for public projects, adding that those responsible for the illegal construction would face prosecution.
He also said residents of the area would be consulted on the type of public facility to be developed on the site.
Urging compliance with building regulations, Wike emphasized the importance of obtaining proper approvals and adhering to safety standards in construction.
He further instructed relevant agencies to intensify enforcement, including demolishing unauthorized structures, to prevent similar occurrences.
The minister reiterated that safeguarding lives and property remains a top priority, warning that violations of construction laws would attract strict legal consequences.