The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revoked 762 plots of land in Abuja, including those allocated to prominent figures such as former President Muhammadu Buhari, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, former Chief Justice of Nigeria Walter Onnoghen, and several corporate organizations.
The revocation comes as a result of the failure to pay for the Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) of the properties. Wike’s decision highlights his commitment to ensuring that land allocations in the capital are handled transparently and in accordance with the law.
According to reports, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued public notices revealing that the revoked plots are located in the prestigious Maitama 1 District of Abuja. This upscale area, known for its prime real estate, is home to many high-profile individuals and organizations, making the revocation a significant move in the ongoing efforts to enforce land regulations and accountability within the capital.
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has issued a stern warning to 614 individuals and companies whose plots in Abuja remain unpaid. If they fail to settle their outstanding payments for their Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) within two weeks, their Rights of Occupancy (R-of-O) will be revoked.
Among the prominent figures affected by the revocation are former governors such as Rochas Okorocha (Imo State), Ben Ayade (Cross River), Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa), Shaaba Lafiagi (Kwara), Ahmad Sani (Zamfara), and Kabiru Gaya (Kano). The list also includes current and former federal lawmakers like Enyinnaya Abaribe, Abdul Ningi, Dino Melaye, and Shehu Sani, as well as other political figures such as Agom Jarigbe, Obinna Chidoka, and David Umaru.
The FCTA’s public notice clarified that these actions are in line with Section 28 of the Land Use Act of 1978, which allows for the revocation of land titles when terms, including payment of fees, are violated. According to the notice, non-payment of statutory fees is considered a breach that justifies the withdrawal of land titles.
The notice also warned that individuals who have already made partial payments for their C-of-O bills must pay the remaining balance within the two-week deadline to avoid further action.
This move highlights Wike’s commitment to enforcing land regulations and holding both public figures and private individuals accountable for their land dealings in the capital. The FCTA’s decision emphasizes the importance of compliance with the legal obligations tied to land ownership in Abuja.