Abuja, Nigeria
Fresh controversy has erupted over alleged land allocations involving the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, following an investigative report suggesting he approved prime plots of Abuja land to close family members and associates.
According to findings by Peoples Gazette, the allocations reportedly included parcels designated for Wike’s 90-year-old father, siblings, cousins, nephews, and political allies, raising concerns of nepotism and potential abuse of office.
Details of the Allegations
The report claims that several high-value plots of land, some within strategic parts of Abuja such as Guzape, Katampe Extension, Asokoro, and Maitama, were distributed without clear justification, allegedly bypassing standard procedures.
Documents reviewed by Peoples Gazette suggest the minister used executive discretion to fast-track and approve land allocations between December 2023 and June 2025, a move critics say undermines fairness and transparency.
Some of the beneficiaries are said to have no known business dealings in Abuja nor any prior involvement in urban development activities.
Public Backlash and Civil Society Concerns
The revelations have drawn swift reactions from civil society organizations, urban planners, and opposition politicians, many of whom have demanded a full-scale investigation into the minister's handling of Abuja's land resources.
A representative of a prominent transparency watchdog group said:
“Allocating national assets to one’s extended family is not just unethical, it is a disservice to the Nigerian people who deserve equitable access to land and opportunities.”
Silence from the FCT Ministry
As of press time, Mr. Wike has not responded publicly to the allegations. Efforts to reach officials from the FCT administration for comments have also yielded no response.
Background and Context
Mr. Wike, a former Governor of Rivers State, was appointed FCT Minister by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023. Since assuming office, he has been vocal about his commitment to urban renewal and enforcement of planning regulations within the capital city.
However, critics argue that while the minister has taken bold steps to curb illegal structures and enforce environmental laws, his approach to governance—particularly land-related decisions—lacks accountability.
What’s Next?
Pressure is mounting on the National Assembly and anti-graft agencies to scrutinize land allocations made under Wike’s tenure and ensure transparency in the FCT’s land administration processes.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have yet to comment on whether any investigation is underway.
