The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has made it clear that land in Abuja is under the control of the FCT Administration (FCTA) and not the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). Wike issued a warning to individuals claiming land ownership with allocation papers from AMAC, urging them to vacate the plots they believe they own. He emphasized that the FCTA will reclaim all illegally acquired lands and properties in the territory.
Wike Orders Security Support for Demolition Taskforce
During a recent address to aggrieved landowners in Sabo Lugbe, Wike expressed concern over unauthorized developments on illegally acquired plots. He directed security agencies supporting the demolition taskforce to ensure the safety of FCTA officials executing the land recovery. The minister reinforced that developers who insist on having valid documents should present their cases in court.
Wike stated firmly, “My administration will not tolerate any illegal land acquisition or violation of development procedures.”
Muktar Galadima, Director of the Department of Development Control, clarified that the current demolition efforts aim to address widespread land misuse, particularly in areas notorious for land grabbing, such as Lugbe, Idu Train Station (now Gosa and Kyami), and Apo Tarfi. According to Galadima, the recent operation in Sabon Lugbe Southwest was just the beginning, with further action planned for other areas.
He noted, “This exercise is a continuation of our enforcement efforts. We advise the public to verify property ownership and obtain approved development plans before purchasing property in Abuja to avoid falling victim to land grabbers.”
Wike on Abuja’s Infrastructure vs Land Sales
In response to growing speculation surrounding the roles of FCT ministers in land allocations, Wike reassured Abuja residents that his priority is infrastructure development, not land sales. Speaking at the Pai community road construction ceremony in Kwali Area Council, he affirmed, “I was not appointed to sell land. My focus is infrastructure, infrastructure, infrastructure.”
The minister stressed that his administration is committed to improving infrastructure in both urban and rural areas, aligning with President Tinubu’s vision for a better FCT. Addressing contractors at the event, Wike set clear expectations for project timelines, urging them to deliver quality work as promised.
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