The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered a crackdown on abandoned and poorly developed areas surrounding Jabi Lake in Abuja, describing the situation as an “eyesore” unfit for Nigeria’s capital city.
Speaking during a media parley in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike stated that the actions of the FCT Administration (FCTA) were guided strictly by the Abuja Master Plan and the rule of law, rather than public sentiment.
The Minister criticized the failure of developers to deliver on proposed projects in the area, noting that land allocated for high-end recreational and commercial purposes had remained undeveloped for over 15 years. He lamented that makeshift structures had instead taken over the area.
According to him, the government would no longer tolerate land speculation and underdevelopment. He warned that any developer who fails to build within a stipulated timeframe would have their land revoked and reassigned to serious investors.
Wike disclosed that the FCTA had already revoked several plots around Jabi Lake as part of efforts to restore order and ensure proper infrastructure development. He emphasized that the exercise was not aimed at denying residents access to the lake but at reclaiming land from individuals who violated the terms of allocation or converted it to unauthorized uses.
The Minister also condemned the illegal conversion of designated recreational spaces, citing instances where such areas were repurposed without approval, including for religious use. He stressed that strict enforcement would follow to maintain the integrity of the city’s development plan.
Wike reiterated that the goal is to transform the Jabi Lake axis into a world-class recreational and entertainment hub in line with Abuja’s status as a modern capital.
Addressing recent controversies, the FCT Minister defended the reallocation of land originally designated for the Wuye General Hospital to a private estate developer. He argued that the government retains the authority to adjust the master plan in response to evolving societal needs.
He noted that development plans are not static, adding that decisions can be revised when a location is deemed no longer suitable for its initial purpose.
On education funding, Wike explained that the FCTA’s decision to divert 10 percent of Area Council allocations to pay Local Education Authority (LEA) teachers was necessary to address ongoing strikes caused by unpaid salaries. He added that the FCTA had also committed part of its funds to offset the arrears, despite the responsibility resting with Area Councils.
The Minister also dismissed criticisms over land allocations to ambassador-designates, describing the gesture as justified recognition of individuals representing Nigeria’s interests abroad.
On national politics, Wike weighed in on the leadership crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing some party leaders of acting in defiance of court rulings.
He challenged rival factions to prove their legitimacy by opening an official party bank account and establishing a recognized secretariat for party activities, including the sale of nomination forms.
Wike argued that no financial institution would recognize such an account without proper documentation and legitimate leadership, warning that any attempt to operate an illegal PDP office in Abuja would be met with enforcement action.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP and adherence to constitutional order, criticizing what he described as attempts by some actors to manipulate judicial pronouncements for political advantage.
The Minister maintained that existing court judgments had already resolved the leadership dispute, stressing the need for respect for the rule of law and due process within the party.
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