FCT: I’m not a land grabber – Wike replies critics
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Responds to Land Grab Allegations
ABUJA — Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), addressed allegations of land grabbing during the inauguration of the Federal High Court Judges Quarters in the Katampe area of Abuja on Wednesday.
Wike stated that he is performing his duties as a public official, asserting that the claims circulating on social media are unfounded. “When we came here looking for land to construct the Judges Quarters, there was no road. However, last year, President Bola Tinubu commissioned all the roads within Katampe,” he noted.
At the event, which was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Tinubu, Wike discussed the acquisition of the land from Julius Berger PLC. He explained that the property had remained undeveloped for 15 years before the decision was made to reclaim it for government use. “I said we wanted to build Judges Quarters, so we took back our land. People have labeled me a land grabber, but I am focused on my responsibilities,” Wike stated.
He emphasized that the area surrounding the Judges Quarters would be designated as a “Judges Zone,” indicating a commitment to keeping the vicinity exclusive for judicial use. Wike also mentioned that he has instructed property owners with structures exceeding two or three stories in the area to either dismantle them or face compensation agreements.
The minister’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about land use and development in the capital, aiming to clarify his position amid growing public scrutiny.
