…“the FCT does not sell land; it allocates it based on specific conditions,” Wike explained.
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times| Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the FCT Administration’s policy of allocating land to diplomatic personnel and investors, dismissing criticisms surrounding the exercise as hypocritical and misleading.
Wike spoke on Thursday in Abuja while inspecting ongoing projects across the Federal Capital Territory, where he maintained that land allocation remains a legitimate government strategy aimed at encouraging investment and accelerating urban development.
The minister accused some critics of double standards, alleging that many of those attacking the policy had previously benefited from similar land allocations.
“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?” Wike said.
He also criticised media organisations questioning the policy, describing them as profit-oriented businesses rather than charitable institutions. According to him, media houses generate revenue through advertisements, live coverage, and commercial news services to sustain their operations.
Wike rejected claims that the FCT Administration was selling public land, clarifying that allocations are made strictly under development agreements and investment-based conditions.
“The FCT does not sell land; it allocates it based on specific conditions,” he explained.
“All allottees, including diplomats, must pay processing fees for their Certificates of Occupancy.”
The minister further stated that several of the disputed land allocations originated from previous administrations, stressing that government remains a continuous institution regardless of changes in leadership.
He warned that beneficiaries of allocated land must comply with development terms or risk losing their plots.
Citing the case of Jabi Lake, Wike noted that land allocated in the area about two decades ago remained undeveloped, forcing the government to reclaim and reassign it to new investors.
He also dismissed emotional arguments suggesting that prime locations should be reserved solely for the poor, insisting that high-value areas require serious investment to transform them into world-class destinations.
“I will always stand by the truth,” Wike stated, adding that his administration would continue to prioritise practical development and economic growth over populist sentiments and public applause.
