Wike Takes Swift Action: Sets Up Two Committees To Crack Down On FCT Land Violations—Deadlines Imposed

On Friday, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, inaugurated two special committees tasked with investigating various land-related violations and mandated to submit their reports within two weeks.

One committee will focus on resolving the ongoing disputes surrounding River Park Estate, while the other will examine cases where land use has been altered from its original approved purpose, especially where commercial activities have encroached on areas designated for other uses.

Minister Wike directed both committees to conduct their work professionally and without external influence.

During the inauguration, Barrister Wike emphasized the committees’ crucial role in restoring order to Abuja’s urban development and improving service delivery by the FCT Administration.

Regarding the River Park Estate Committee, chaired by Barrister Salman Dako, General Counsel and Secretary of the Legal Services Secretariat, Wike explained it will investigate breaches of agreements between the FCT Administration and developers involved in the mass housing project.

He stated, “The first Committee is charged with addressing issues at River Park Estate. Often, the government issues letters of intent to developers planning mass housing projects, accompanied by agreements or Memoranda of Understanding. We have found many of these agreements are being violated. This Committee’s role is to investigate these violations and advise the government on necessary corrective measures.”

He stressed the urgency, “The task must be completed within two weeks with no extensions. If it means working from morning till night, so be it. We will not tolerate delays.”

He further warned, “This must be handled with utmost professionalism. I will not tolerate any external or internal interference, whether from outside parties or departments like AGIS or Land Administration. Any undue influence will have consequences. Should you require assistance or encounter obstruction, report to me immediately.”

The second committee, led by Town Planner Mukhtar Galadima, Director of Development Control, will investigate unauthorized changes in land use within the FCT. It will identify properties where the use specified in the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)—for example, residential—has been unlawfully converted to commercial or other uses.

Barrister Wike explained, “Such unauthorized changes violate the Abuja Master Plan and must be addressed. This Committee will identify all violations and recommend appropriate government actions, whether outright revocation of the C of O or imposing penalties and requiring formal conversion fees.”

He added, “This Committee is also expected to deliver its recommendations within two weeks to ensure commitment and timely action. Their report should provide clear guidance on government’s next steps.”

In addition to establishing these committees, Barrister Wike directed the heads of Lands, AGIS, Development Control, and Urban & Regional Planning departments to compile immediately a list of all individuals and organizations who have defaulted on ground rent payments for 2024 and 2025. This will aid enforcement and revenue collection efforts.

He stressed the significance of these funds for infrastructure projects outlined in the 2025 FCT budget, recently signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Wike stated, “We must identify all defaulters from 2022 to 2025 to begin immediate enforcement and revenue recovery, which is vital to funding infrastructure development.”

He concluded, “The 2025 FCT budget, now assented to by Mr. President, contains no direct funding, so it’s crucial we mobilize these resources. I urge the Directors of Lands, AGIS, Development Control, and Urban & Regional Planning to work diligently to achieve this goal.”