In a significant move, Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, has revoked land allocations for 568 prominent figures, including governors, senators, and other political leaders. This decision affects notable individuals such as Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri, Imo Governor Hope Uzodimma, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, and PDP National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu.
The revocations stem from the expiration of a grace period for the payment of Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) bills. According to Lere Olayinka, Wike’s media aide, the initial deadline allowed land allottees two weeks to settle their dues. Out of 3,273 notified individuals, only 2,511 complied, leaving 762 who were granted an additional two weeks. By January 15, however, only 194 of these had made their payments, resulting in 568 individuals losing their land rights.
The official Notice of Withdrawal highlights that those who failed to meet the payment deadline will have their Right of Occupancy revoked, in accordance with Section 28 of the Land Use Act of 1978. Importantly, allottees who completed their payments by the deadline remain unaffected.
This action has drawn attention to issues of land management and accountability among Nigeria’s political elite, as Wike continues to assert his authority in the FCT.
