OSAS EMMANUEL
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has revealed that some officials of the Legal department have been conniving with those who file lawsuits against the administration, which resulted in the over $700 million garnishee order.
Wike disclosed this yesterday at the inauguration of Mandate Secretaries for the FCT Administration in Abuja.
“It is essential that we uphold the standards and integrity of our city. In addition to addressing infractions, we will closely examine our laws and seek ways to strengthen them and close the loopholes that offenders may exploit to the detriment of the administration and the people of FCT.
“I must also address the recent garnishee order to the tune of almost seven hundred billion dollars. The Court of Appeals has set aside that, but it’s important to know that it was in collusion with the legal department FCTA. So, we’re happy that we have a general council that is tested.
He said that so many things were done wrong as some officials connived with those who went to court against the interest of the FCT.
This is as the Minister promised that the administration shall no longer tolerate such actions.
He further reiterated his unwavering determination to bring the City’s development back in line with the Abuja Masterplan.
“The infractions will be dealt with decisively, and non-compliant buildings will be subject to appropriate measures, including removal and penalties.”
The Mandate Secretaries inaugurated are Mr Mr Bitrus Garki, Secretary, Area Council Services Secretariat, Mr Lawan Geidam, Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat and Mr Danlami Ihayyo, Secretary, Education Secretariat.
Others are Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, Secretary, Health and Environment Services Secretariat, Mr Salman Dako, Secretary, Legal Services Secretariat, Mr Chinedum Elechi, Secretary, Economic Planning, Revenue Generation and Public Private Partnership.
Mr Uboku Nyah was also inaugurated as Secretary, Transportation Secretariat.
Inaugurating the secretaries in Abuja, Wike stressed the need to address issues affecting delivery of services in FCT Administration particularly procurement process.
“Transparency, efficiency, and accountability must become the cornerstones of our administration.
“As mandate secretaries, your role in this journey of transformation is pivotal. You are not only advisors but also leaders and implementers of our policies.
“You have a duty to translate our vision into tangible actions that will shape the future of the FCT.
“Our President has entrusted us with the monumental task of rebuilding and developing the FCT into a world-class city.
“To achieve this, we must address several key areas that are essential for the progress of our city and the well-being of our residents.” He said
Wike said that the FCT Administration would give due attention to the development of satellite towns.
He explained that the prosperity and well- being of residents extend beyond the city center, stressing the need to ensure that all areas of the FCT experience progress and development.
Speaking further, he also stressed the need for the enhancement of Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) through innovative ways to raise the needed funds to support the development agenda.
This, according to him, is crucial to finance ambitious projects and initiatives.
While identifying public transportation as a major challenge that must be addressed comprehensively, he said that no modern city can function effectively and efficiently without a reliable and comprehensive public transportation system.
He reiterated the Administration’s commitment to establishing an integrated and efficient transport network that meets the needs of residents.
On environment, Wike noted that clean and well-maintained surroundings were not only a reflection of a city’s pride but also a fundamental requirement for a healthy and prosperous community.
He pointed out that it was a collective responsibility of both the government and the citizens, stressing the need for collaboration to ensure a cleaner and greener FCT.
He also promised to collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies and communities to ensure a safe and secure environment for all.
