Wike defends FCT land allocation policy, accuses critics of hypocrisy

By Angela Atabo

Minister of FCT, Nyesom Wike, has defended the FCT Administration’s land allocation policy while accusing accused critics of hypocrisy, saying many questioning the policy once benefited from similar allocations.

Wike spoke on Thursday in Abuja during the inspection of ongoing projects across the Federal Capital Territory.

The FCT Minister insisted that land allocation remains a standard government procedure for promoting investment and urban development.

He criticized media organizations attacking the policy, describing them as profit-driven businesses, not charitable institutions.

He noted that media houses charge for adverts, live coverage and commercial news to sustain operations.

“When you live in a glass house, don’t throw stones. You were given land, and you are not among the poor, so why complain now?” he asked.

The minister dismissed claims that land is being sold by the FCT Administration.

He explained that land is allocated under development agreements and investment-based conditions.

He said: “The FCT does not sell land; it allocates it based on specific conditions.

“All allottees, including diplomats, must pay processing fees for their Certificates of Occupancy.”

Wike said many disputed allocations were made by previous administrations.

He stressed that government remained a continuous institution, regardless of changing leadership.

The minister warned that allocated land must be developed in line with agreed terms.

He cited Jabi Lake, where land allocated two decades ago remained undeveloped.

According to him, the government reclaimed the land and reassigned it to fresh investors.

Wike dismissed emotional arguments that prime land should only go to the poor.

He said high-value locations required serious investment to become world-class attractions.

“I will always stand by the truth,” Wike said.

He added that his administration would prioritise realistic development over public applause.

(NAN)