Why Is It Wrong When Others Get Land?” — Wike Fires Back At Channels TV Over Allocation Debate

He also defended his criticism of Channels Television over questions raised by journalists during a recent media interaction, insisting that his response was justified.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday during an inspection of ongoing projects in Abuja, Wike said there was no controversy in the government allocating land to media organisations to support their operations.

He explained that media houses operate as commercial entities, not charitable organisations, and therefore generate revenue through advertising, live broadcasts, and other services to sustain their businesses and pay staff.

Wike argued that if the government can legitimately allocate land to a media organisation such as Channels Television, then similar allocations to other entities should not be considered improper.

He said media organisations rely on business activities to remain functional and should not be viewed differently from other commercial enterprises.

He further questioned the criticism surrounding such allocations, asking why it should be acceptable for one organisation but wrong for others.

Following the remarks, Channels Television responded on Thursday, addressing the Minister’s comments about its operations and land allocation.

In its response, the station clarified that its headquarters land was allocated in 2007 by a former FCT Minister for commercial purposes, and that all required fees had been duly paid.

The broadcaster also rejected suggestions that it profits unfairly from its interview sessions, explaining that significant production resources and airtime are committed during such broadcasts, which involve operational costs.

Channels Television reaffirmed its commitment to journalistic independence, stating that it will continue to ask critical questions while upholding the credibility it has built over decades.

The station also challenged Wike to publish the full list of journalists he claimed had received land allocations in the FCT.