FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike has given a 24-hour ultimatum to the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr Shehu Ahmed Hadi, to explain the position of the government over the partial demolition of the National Mosque and the proposed compensation plan.
Reports say Wike’s ultimatum follows concerns expressed by the management of the National Mosque which is facing partial loss of its land due to road expansion and seeks compensation through alternative land plots.
Wike clarified his position when he met with members of the Abuja National Mosque Management Committee, led by its Chairman, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe.
The FCT minister denied allegations that his administration was promoting policies against any religious group.
According to him, he holds the Sultan of Sokoto in high regard and would always offer support to initiatives related to the National Mosque.
He noted that he was committed to preserving worship centres and national monuments.
He warned against the exploitation of religious sentiments for political gain and reiterated that his government’s actions were intended for the collective benefit of all FCT residents and Nigerians at large.
Responding, the Etsu Nupe appealed to Wike to back the maintenance project of the National Mosque, which had faced obstacles.
