By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives has taken a bold step by ordering the arrest of top officials from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) over alleged breaches of the building code in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Specifically, the House has directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetekun, to arrest the Executive Secretary of FCDA, Mr. Richard Dauda, the Director of Development Control, Mr. Muktar Galadima, and the Director of Regional Planning.
The decision to issue arrest warrants was made by the House Committee on Public Petitions, chaired by Hon. Mike Etaba. According to Etaba, the officials deliberately shunned the committee’s summons on Tuesday and Thursday, leaving no option but to take drastic action.
The committee’s investigation stems from a petition filed by Elder Leke Abejide, chairman of the House committee on Customs, regarding a property development at AO9399 Cadastral Zone in Guzape. The petition alleges that the development contravenes the FCT’s building code.
During an on-site assessment of the building, the committee discovered that there was no approved building plan available. The engineer at the site, Mr. Emmanuel, confirmed that no approved plan existed. This revelation has raised serious concerns about the FCDA’s adherence to building codes and regulations.
The committee has directed the IGP to ensure that the arrested officials appear before the committee on the 28th of this month. They will be required to explain their role in the alleged infraction and provide documents necessary for the investigation.
Etaba emphasized that the committee is committed to doing justice to all parties involved. He stated that the FCDA officials will be compelled to produce the required documents to ascertain the veracity of the petitioner’s claims.
The House’s actions demonstrate its determination to hold public officials accountable for their actions. By taking a tough stance on alleged breaches of building codes, the House is sending a strong message about the importance of upholding the law.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the FCDA officials will respond to the allegations. One thing is certain, however: the House of Representatives is committed to ensuring that justice is served and that the rule of law is upheld.
