In a controversial but calculated decision, Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has revoked land allocations belonging to prominent politicians, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen.
The decision affects a total of 568 allottees who failed to meet payment deadlines, raising questions about Wike’s strict adherence to rules and the potential political repercussions of stepping on heavyweight toes.
The minister’s media aide, Lere Olayinka, confirmed in a statement that the revocations were due to the expiration of a two-week grace period given in October 2024, followed by an extended deadline that lapsed on January 15, 2025. The affected allottees failed to pay their Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) fees despite repeated notices.
Prominent Figures Among Defaulters
The revoked allocations include lands tied to high-profile figures such as Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Ibrahim Hadejia; former Cross River State Governor Ben Ayade; Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele; Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro; and Ministers Nkeiruka Onyejeocha (Industry, Trade, and Investment) and John Eno (Labour and Employment). Others impacted include Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM); the late Sports Minister Bala Kaoje; and Regina Akume, wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
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This fresh wave of revocations follows an earlier withdrawal of 762 plots of land in December 2024, bringing Wike’s total revocations to a staggering 1,330 allocations since taking office.
Rules Must Be Followed
Wike has consistently emphasized the importance of law and order in the FCT, demonstrating a commitment to enforcing policies without regard to status. However, this decision risks alienating powerful political figures. Wike’s enforcement of rules, while commendable for promoting accountability, may place him in direct conflict with influential leaders who could retaliate politically.
The statement from his media aide noted: “Of the 3,273 allottees initially given two weeks to comply in October 2024, 568 defaulted after an additional grace period. The revocation is a consequence of their non-compliance.”
Implications for Governance and Political Fallout
While Wike’s actions may bolster his image as a no-nonsense administrator, they also expose him to potential backlash, especially considering the political clout of those affected. Revoking the land allocations of governors, legislative leaders, and key presidential aides is likely to strain relationships within the corridors of power.
The decision also sends a strong message about governance in the FCT, signaling that Wike intends to uphold the rules regardless of status or influence. However, critics argue that this approach could backfire, particularly if the affected individuals leverage their political weight against him.
A Bold but Risky Precedent
This move reflects Wike’s characteristic style of governance, marked by decisiveness and disregard for political consequences. It remains to be seen whether this bold enforcement of rules will strengthen governance in the FCT or spark political confrontations that could undermine his effectiveness.
By revoking lands tied to some of the nation’s most powerful figures, Wike has set a precedent for accountability—but also a stage for possible political resistance. How this plays out could shape the trajectory of his tenure as FCT Minister.