Daniel Bwala, the spokesperson for the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Council in the 2023 elections, has said the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike’s, threat to demolish buildings not in the original Master Plan of Abuja should start with the Aso Villa, the seat of power.
Peoplesmind reports that Bwala made the statement in a recent interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today.
Bwala argued that if adherence to the original Master Plan of the FCT is the goal, then the President’s residence and various government assets must also be subject to demolition. He emphasized that there are more pressing matters for the FCT Administration to address than demolition.
“The FCT is not comparable to the Ministry of Works; it functions as an Administration. Numerous crucial aspects contribute to the effective administration of the FCT,” Bwala stated.
He continued, “Let’s consider the demolition aspect. Minister Wike mentioned a return to the original Master Plan. If we talk about the original Master Plan, it’s important to note that the Aso Villa, which houses the President and serves as the seat of power, is not part of the original Master Plan and should be demolished. Similarly, all military barracks within the FCT deviate from the original Master Plan and should also be removed.”
Bwala further pointed out, “Additionally, the prominent Asokoro district and its extension, where numerous governors maintain liaison offices or private residences, were not part of the original plan and should be subject to demolition. Several federal government assets and buildings situated in strategic locations also deviate from the original Master Plan.”
While acknowledging Wike’s capabilities as a minister and his potential to achieve positive outcomes, Bwala advised him to approach his responsibilities without resorting to confrontation.
Peoplesmind