The debate over the enforcement of Abuja’s original Master Plan and the potential demolition of buildings not in compliance has intensified, with Daniel Bwala, spokesperson for the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Council in the 2023 elections, addressing the issue.
Bwala challenged Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), who had announced plans to demolish structures that do not conform to the original Master Plan. Bwala argued that if the Master Plan were to be strictly followed, then the Presidential residence (Aso Villa) and other government assets would also need to be demolished, as they are not part of the original plan.
He raised the point that there are more important matters for the FCT Administration to address than demolition. Bwala emphasized that the FCT is not like the Ministry of Works and that various vital aspects contribute to the administration of the FCT.
He noted that several government assets and buildings, including military barracks and offices for governors from various states, are not in alignment with the original Master Plan and would need to be removed if strict adherence were to be followed.
While acknowledging Nyesom Wike’s capacity to deliver as a minister, Bwala called for a more measured approach to addressing issues without resorting to confrontation.
This debate highlights the complex challenges faced by urban planners in Abuja as they attempt to balance the preservation of the original Master Plan with the realities of urban development and the need for government infrastructure.