In a statement on Thursday, his media aide, Lere Olayinka, called the allegation another round of falsehood pushed by those “whose job is to malign the FCT Minister.”

“No Land, No Truth,” Says Wike

Wike made it clear: no plot of land has been given to any of his children. He asked, “Where in Maitama or Asokoro can anyone find 2,082 hectares of free land today?” He labeled the report as not just false but also impossible to believe.

Minister Demands Evidence

Olayinka challenged the online publisher behind the claim. He urged them to provide proof any document that links Wike or his family to the alleged land. According to him, professional journalists would never spread such a poorly researched story.

Clarification on the Real Land Deal

The only land mentioned in the report, Wike’s team explained, belongs to JOAQ Farms and Estate Limited. This is a legally registered company that received a land allocation in Bwari Area Council, and only for farming purposes.

“There’s nothing illegal about a farming business receiving land,” the aide stated. He added that JOAQ Farms has no link to the minister’s family.

Land Ownership Not a Crime But No Such Ownership Exists

Olayinka reminded the public that owning land is a right all Nigerians share including public officials. However, in this case, Wike insists that no land has been allocated to any of his children.

He described the allegations as baseless and urged the public to ignore them completely.

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He voiced his criticism during a recent inspection of the 15-kilometre OSEX Road, a vital infrastructure project handled by CGC Construction, stretching from Wassa to the EFCC Academy.

University of Abuja Under Fire
Wike praised the contractors for their impressive pace and the quality of their work. However, he expressed disappointment with how some public institutions, particularly the University of Abuja, have acquired land. He questioned the purpose of the university’s claim of over 1,000 hectares, much of which remains undeveloped. Wike called this practice “land grabbing in the name of education” and stressed that such actions undermine the real goals of education and development in the capital.

“You can’t deny progress to others while a university takes over such a huge swath of land,” Wike said, clearly upset. “For what? What is the purpose? We’ve visited universities across the country, and none of them became great just by stockpiling land. A university’s greatness lies in its infrastructure and the quality it provides, not in the land it claims.

Wike Rejects Future Expansion Excuse
When asked if the land was reserved for future expansion, Wike dismissed the idea. “Expansion for what?” he responded. “What future are we talking about when there’s nothing happening on the ground? Before long, they’ll start leasing out this land, making money off it without any real investment in education or infrastructure. If they don’t develop it, we will take it back.”

Police Force Land Mismanagement
Wike also criticized the Nigerian Police Force for letting parcels of land allocated to them years ago remain undeveloped. He sees land mismanagement as a major roadblock to the FCT’s progress. He insisted that public institutions must develop their land, or the government will reclaim it and give it to others who will put it to better use.

Next Steps for Land Reclamation
When asked if the administration would reclaim the land, Wike responded firmly. “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves,” he said. “First, we’ll have the Director of Lands come to me. Then, we’ll invite the university and the Police to explain why they haven’t developed the land. If they can’t provide a reasonable justification, we will take action.”

A Message of Accountability for Public Institutions
Wike’s remarks reflect growing frustration with land mismanagement in the capital. With numerous projects in progress and the Tinubu administration promising development, Wike is making it clear that he will not tolerate land hoarding under his watch.

The Future of Development in the FCT
As the city prepares for the next phase of its development, Wike’s message is clear: if public institutions aren’t using their land for its intended purpose, the government will step in and hand it over to those who will.

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High-Profile Book Launch in Abuja

The event attracted prominent figures from across Nigeria and beyond, underscoring the significance of Babangida’s revelations. Attendees included:

• President Bola Tinubu
• Former President Goodluck Jonathan
• Ex-Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo
• Former Heads of State Yakubu Gowon and Abdulsalami Abubakar

The book was reviewed by former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, who shared key excerpts that left the audience in deep contemplation.

Babangida Confirms Abiola’s Victory

A striking portion of the book confirms that a thorough examination of the election results made it undeniable that Abiola had emerged victorious. Osinbajo quoted Babangida as writing:

“Upon deeper reflection and a closer examination of all available facts, particularly the detailed election results, which are published as an appendix to this book, there was no doubt that MKO Abiola won the June 12th elections.”

Babangida also acknowledged that Abiola met both constitutional requirements for winning:

• Majority Votes: Abiola secured 8,128,720 votes, significantly surpassing Bashir Tofa’s 5,848,247 votes.
• Geographical Spread: Abiola achieved the required one-third of votes across 28 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

Additionally, Babangida admitted that the Buhari administration’s posthumous recognition of Abiola as a former head of state was a long-overdue act of justice.

Regret Over Annulment of June 12, 1993, Election

Perhaps the most emotional part of Babangida’s confession was his reflection on annulling the election. He described it as the most difficult and painful moment of his life:

“Looking back now, the June 12th saga was undeniably the most challenging moment of my life, and in certain respects, one of the most painful. And if I had to do it all over again, I would do it differently.”

For decades, the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election has been one of the most contentious moments in Nigeria’s political history. It fueled distrust in the democratic process, triggered widespread protests, and led to political instability.

The Impact of Babangida’s Admission

Babangida’s admission, though long overdue, may offer some form of closure to those who fought and suffered for the recognition of Abiola’s mandate. However, it raises key questions:

• Why did it take so long for this confession?
• What pressures influenced the annulment decision?
• Could this revelation mark a turning point in Nigeria’s political history?

Only time will tell. However, one thing is certain—history has finally been acknowledged, and the truth, no matter how delayed, has come to light.

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Folashade has called on the Federal Government to construct 3,600 housing units specifically for market traders nationwide, addressing a long-standing challenge that has left many struggling with accommodation insecurity.

During an advocacy visit to the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Ata, in Abuja, Tinubu-Ojo made a passionate appeal for the government to take immediate steps toward affordable housing solutions for women in trade. The Iyaloja General, who is also the daughter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighted how crucial it is to recognize the economic contributions of market women and reward their efforts with policies that uplift their living standards.

Her proposal outlines the construction of 100 housing units in each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, ensuring that thousands of hardworking market traders finally have a place to call their own. Stressing the urgent need for structured mortgage schemes, Tinubu-Ojo emphasized that housing security plays a fundamental role in economic stability. Many women in trade, she noted, find it nearly impossible to own homes due to financial barriers, making them vulnerable to unstable living conditions.

As key contributors to Nigeria’s trade and commerce, market women play a significant role in national development. However, the lack of stable housing affects their financial well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life. This initiative is designed to close the gender gap in homeownership, empowering these women with affordable and accessible housing,” she stated.

Beyond offering shelter, the proposed housing initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes improving citizens’ lives through strategic interventions. Tinubu-Ojo reminded government officials that market women played a critical role in grassroots mobilization for the current administration and that their unwavering support should be reciprocated with policies that improve their standard of living.

In response, Minister Abdullahi Ata praised the Iyaloja General for her advocacy and commitment to the welfare of Nigerian market traders. He assured her that the proposal would be given serious consideration, promising to push for its inclusion in the government’s supplementary budget discussions.

“I appreciate your dedication to the cause of market women. The government remains committed to promoting equitable access to housing, and I will do my best to ensure this proposal is thoroughly reviewed. I will advocate for its consideration by the Federal Executive Council, exploring its feasibility within our housing initiatives,” Ata stated.

The proposed housing units, if approved, will be developed in phases across all states and the Federal Capital Territory. A transparent mortgage system will be introduced to ensure affordability, allowing market women to acquire homes through reasonable installment payments. Additionally, the initiative is expected to boost economic activity by creating jobs in the construction sector while also addressing the country’s ongoing housing deficit.

Stakeholders and market associations have welcomed the Iyaloja General’s initiative with optimism, commending her relentless efforts to secure better living conditions for Nigeria’s trading community. Many believe that if implemented, the project will be a game-changer, providing economic empowerment and social security for thousands of women who have long been overlooked in national housing policies.

As the conversation around affordable housing for market women gains momentum, all eyes are now on the Federal Government to take decisive action in making this vision a reality. With strong advocacy and governmental support, the dream of homeownership for Nigeria’s hardworking market women may soon become a reality.

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The announcement was made by Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, Coordinator of the FCTA’s Satellite Towns Development Department, during a press briefing in Abuja following the first executive committee meeting of 2025.

According to Zulkiflu, the approved funds will be allocated to a range of key projects aimed at improving sports, judicial infrastructure, power supply, and urban security. A significant portion, ₦19.6 billion, has been designated for the construction of multi-event sports centers designed to promote athletic development and community engagement. The contracts for these centers have been split into two major lots: Lot A, located in Area 3 and Area 10 of Garki District, awarded to Earthgain Energy and Environmental Services Ltd at a cost of ₦9.9 billion, and Lot B, situated in Kafe District behind Life Camp, awarded to Tegwa-Tegwa Nigeria Ltd for ₦9.7 billion. Both projects are scheduled for completion within 12 months.

In addition to sports facilities, the FCTA has allocated ₦13.9 billion for the construction of two magistrate courts, part of a broader effort to improve access to justice in the capital territory. The courts will be established in Asokoro and Garki Districts, with costs of ₦7.6 billion and ₦6.3 billion respectively. The Asokoro court is expected to be completed within 15 months, while the Garki court has an 18-month completion timeline. These new judicial infrastructures aim to ease legal processes and enhance the efficiency of the justice system in Abuja.

Addressing the critical issue of power supply and urban lighting, the FCTA has also approved ₦3 billion for the procurement and installation of a 33kV power supply system to serve communities from Dawaki to Bwari. This funding will also support the installation of solar-powered streetlights along Arab Road and U-Shape Road in these areas. The contract for this project has been awarded to CGC Nigeria Ltd, with a projected completion period of six months. This initiative is expected to significantly improve security and public safety in the satellite towns by enhancing street illumination.

Zulkiflu emphasized that these projects reflect the FCTA’s commitment to creating a modern, secure, and vibrant environment for residents. By focusing on infrastructure development, the administration aims to foster economic growth, improve the quality of life, and attract further investments into the Federal Capital Territory and its surrounding areas. As work progresses, the FCTA assures the public of strict adherence to timelines and quality standards to ensure the successful delivery of these transformative projects.

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The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has ramped up efforts to tackle infrastructure vandalism in Abuja, following a raid on an iron smelting company allegedly linked to stolen public assets.

The operation, aimed at curbing the rampant theft of manhole covers across the city, marks a significant step in the administration’s commitment to protecting critical public infrastructure.

Officials disclosed that the raid, conducted on Abuja Steel Company along the Abuja–Kaduna Road, uncovered evidence suggesting the company had been purchasing manhole covers stolen by vandals operating in the capital. The Federal Capital Territory’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications, Lere Olayinka, stated that the recovered materials are now in police custody and that ongoing investigations aim to identify and dismantle the network facilitating such thefts.

Thefts of manhole covers, which provide access to underground utilities like sewers and pipes, have surged in recent months, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians and motorists. Open manholes have become a significant safety concern, with residents reporting frequent accidents caused by exposed roadways.

According to Olayinka, the FCTA’s actions are part of a broader crackdown on the illegal trade of public assets. Several arrests have already been made, with suspects providing valuable information about the buyers and handlers of the stolen goods. Authorities are determined to prosecute those involved and prevent further exploitation of public resources.

The FCT Minister has directed the immediate replacement of stolen manhole covers in affected areas to restore safety and ensure normalcy for residents. Additionally, the administration is exploring the use of alternative materials less attractive to scrap metal dealers and implementing surveillance measures to deter future thefts.

Residents have been urged to report suspicious activities in their communities, as the FCTA strengthens collaborations with law enforcement agencies to address the growing menace. By targeting both vandals and the buyers who enable their activities, the administration aims to disrupt the market for stolen infrastructure and safeguard the city’s public assets.

This intensified approach signals the FCTA’s commitment to ensuring the safety and functionality of Abuja’s roads and walkways. Officials have vowed to bring those responsible for vandalism to justice, reinforcing the message that public infrastructure is a shared resource that must be protected for the benefit of all.

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The Executive Director of HDAN, Festus Adebayo, who spoke with journalists in Enugu during the on- going conference of Nigerian Institute of Town planners , therefore, called on the FCT Minister, Bar Nyesom Wike to sincerely declare a state of emergency on land in the territory.

He said, “The masterplan of the FCT is in disarray; it requires surgical operation, and the FCT minister must declare a state of emergency on the FCT urban planning system. So many damages have been done. The system is no more going in line with those who saw the vision of the FCT and gave the master plan.

“Firstly, the number one problem with the planning of FCT is that there is no detailed information on existing approved layouts – resulting in fake layouts overlapping it.

“This information, if it is made public, can enable investors to know the right information that will save them from falling victim to land racketeers.”

Adebayo alleged that staff of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) were colluding with the racketeers to destroy the masterplan and also fleece developers.

“Today, 70 per cent of cases in courts in the FCT are land related, which is why the real estate sector in the nation’s capital is at risk.

“We are calling on the government of the FCT to look into the areas where the planning system of the FCT has been abused,” he added.

He also called on the ministry to be wary of politicians who are desperately looking for land to grap. We must not put the real estate sector in FCT in danger.

Meanwhile, the Director, FCT Development Control Department, Mukhtar Usman Galadima, in a separate interview, warned that those that want to circumvent the development process would have their buildings removed while stiffer penalties would be applied like imprisonment to deter people from violating the process.

“Also, for any staff found to be involved in any scam, the civil service rules would apply, and this may lead to dismissal because some illegalities arise from compromise from within and we don’t compromise,” he said.

Galadima explained that the process of building in Abuja starts with obtaining valid title documents, and urged developers to go to the Development Control Department whenever they are ready to commence construction.

He said the department is currently in the process of simplifying the process of acquiring building approvals in such a way that all lands based on their districts would be put on its website, indicating the type of development required.

He said, “For commercial development, there are certain required documents, e.g. environmental impact assessment report, and if it is going for more than two suspended floors, there has to be a soil investigation report to tell us the type of soil and whether it has the carrying capacity and even the type of foundation that you’re going to have.

“When all this is done, there are teams that will visit the site and compare the documents and reports you submitted.

“Once we’re satisfied with these, we now look at the drawings viz-a-viz our requirements in the manual and compute what you are expected to pay to the government – the building plan processing fee – and when you pay that, we stamp your drawing and convey approval to you.”

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The teachers, primarily from public primary schools, initiated an indefinite strike last week due to non-payment of outstanding entitlements and other unresolved issues.

Union chairman Abdullahi Shafa revealed that a recent meeting with area council chairmen and other stakeholders ended in a stalemate, with no progress made towards addressing the teachers’ demands.

“You are aware of the ongoing strike and have no headway yet. We met last Saturday to try and see if anything meaningful would be done to possibly call off the strike, but it was not possible. We are still on it. I will get back to you when we progress,” he stated.

In a communiqué issued following the State Wing Executive Council (SWEC) meeting in Abuja, Shafa announced that all primary school teachers in the FCT were directed to resume the suspended strike as of last Wednesday, after a 14-day ultimatum issued to the six area councils expired without resolution. This has left public primary school students and their teachers at home, awaiting an end to the strike.

The Acting Chairman of the FCT Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB), Dr. Hassan Sule, expressed regret that the union had decided to strike when negotiations were still underway with the government. Meanwhile, the union commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for his intervention, during which he facilitated the payment of 40 percent of the 25-month minimum wage arrears owed to primary school teachers.

As the situation remains unresolved, the uncertainty surrounding the teachers’ strike continues to affect the education of countless children in the FCT. Union leaders are calling for urgent action from the council chairmen to address their concerns and end the strike.

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