In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political landscape, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has revoked the lands of several prominent figures in Abuja for failing to pay fees tied to their Certificate of Occupancy.
Among those affected are former President Muhammadu Buhari, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
This land revocation extends to 759 other high-profile figures and organizations located in Maitama II, Abuja, who have also failed to settle their outstanding fees.
The FCT Administration issued an official publication on December 19, 2024, which detailed the land revocation orders. The statement was shared with the media by Lere Olayinka, the Special Adviser to the FCT Minister.
According to the FCT Administration’s notice, the decision to revoke the land was based on the non-payment of the required fees for the Certificate of Occupancy, a vital document that confirms ownership of land within the Federal Capital Territory.
This revocation is a result of months of repeated warnings from Wike’s office urging residents of the FCT, particularly those living in affluent areas, to settle their outstanding fees. Wike had previously warned that any failure to comply would lead to the revocation of properties, and now, the government is making good on that promise.
The move has sparked debates across the country, with many questioning the timing and fairness of such a drastic measure.
“This is a long-overdue action,” said a source within the FCTA. “The government cannot allow influential individuals to flout the law and evade their responsibilities, especially when it comes to such critical issues like land ownership.”
A second publication by the FCT Ministry indicated that additional high-profile figures, including Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda, former Senate Presidents Iyorchia Ayu and Ameh Ebute, and Chief Whip of the Senate, Tahir Monguno, are also at risk of having their lands revoked unless they pay their outstanding fees within the next two weeks.
The publication has stirred concern among many, particularly as it places top government officials under scrutiny. If these figures fail to act promptly, their lands too will be targeted in the coming weeks.
“I am not surprised by this development,” said a political analyst based in Abuja. “The FCT Minister has been vocal about the issue, and this shows he’s not just talking; he’s acting. But one has to wonder if this is more about discipline or a political statement.”
The revocation comes months after Wike had made a public plea, urging residents to clear their debts to avoid penalties. In his speeches, he emphasized that these fees are vital for the effective management and development of the capital city.
In a statement, Wike explained that the government had been patient with defaulters for too long, but that patience had run out. “This action is necessary to ensure that the FCT continues to grow and develop,” he said. “Those who benefit from this city must contribute to its well-being.”
