Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has defended the FCT administration’s land allocation policy, dismissing criticisms over allocations to diplomatic personnel and accusing critics of hypocrisy.
Wike made the remarks on Thursday while speaking with journalists during an inspection of ongoing projects in Abuja.
Responding to concerns that the government was allegedly prioritising foreign diplomats and elite interests over ordinary Nigerians, the minister insisted that land allocation remains a legitimate government policy aimed at driving investment and urban development in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to him, many of those criticising the policy had themselves benefited from similar allocations in the past.
“When you are living in a glass house, don’t throw stones.
“You were given land, and you are not among the poor, so why are you complaining now?” he said.
Wike specifically mentioned major media organisations including Channels Television and AIT, noting that their headquarters were built on lands allocated by previous FCT administrations rather than purchased commercially.
He argued that media organisations are business enterprises focused on profit making and should not pretend otherwise.
Addressing journalists directly, the minister stated that media houses charge for advertisements, live coverage and commercial news in order to sustain their operations and pay salaries.
He further clarified that the FCT administration does not “sell” land as often portrayed by critics.
“The FCT does not sell land; it allocates it based on specific conditions and investment proposals.
“All allottees, including diplomats, are required to pay procedural fees for the processing of their Certificate of Occupancy (C of O),” he explained.
The minister also noted that several of the allocations currently generating controversy were approved by previous administrations, stressing that governance is a continuous process.
Wike warned that lands allocated for specific developmental purposes must be utilised accordingly or risk revocation by the government.
Citing the example of Jabi Lake, he explained that land allocated over two decades ago for tourism and entertainment development was recently reclaimed after the investors failed to fulfil their obligations.
According to him, the current administration is focused on attracting serious investors capable of transforming the FCT into a modern and globally competitive city.
He rejected what he described as “emotional arguments” suggesting that land should only be allocated to the poor, maintaining that prime areas require substantial investment to develop world class infrastructure and tourist attractions.
Wike reiterated that his administration would continue to prioritise practical development policies over populist sentiments.
“I will always stand by the truth,” the minister declared, adding that the FCT administration remains committed to realistic urban growth and sustainable investment.
