Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has ordered an investigation into irregularities in land allocation and violations of approved land use in the nation’s capital.
The directive was given in Abuja during the inauguration of two committees to address land issues at River Park Estate and related cases of land abuse.
Wike stated that the investigations are necessary to improve oversight and ensure proper land governance within the FCT.
According to him, “One of the committees is assigned to investigate land disputes and possible violations at River Park Estate. It will be chaired by the General Counsel and Secretary of the Legal Services Secretariat, with the Acting Director of Public Service serving as secretary.
The minister explained that developers are often issued letters of intent for mass housing projects, followed by Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to guide development. However, he noted that many of these agreements are frequently breached, resulting in irregularities.
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The River Park Committee is expected to investigate the breaches and recommend corrective actions to the FCT Administration. It has been given a two-week deadline, with no extension allowed.
“You may need to work day and night. Whatever it takes, we must finish this on time,” Wike said.
He urged committee members to maintain integrity and resist internal or external influence.
“If I hear anyone from within the FCTA, especially from AGIS or the administration department, is trying to influence this process, there will be consequences,” he warned. “Report any obstruction immediately.”
The second committee will review violations of land use, particularly where properties designated for residential purposes have been converted to commercial use without government approval.
It will be chaired by the Director of Development Control, with the Director of Urban and Regional Planning as secretary.
Wike noted that the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) specifies the approved land use—residential, commercial, or otherwise—in line with the Abuja Master Plan. He said the trend of unauthorized conversions is a violation of these terms.
“Residential plots are being used for commercial purposes without prior approval. This undermines legal and urban planning frameworks,” he said.
The committee will identify all locations where such violations occur, including areas like the Central Business District, Maitama, Asokoro, Garki, and Wuse I and II, and recommend appropriate actions.
Wike asked the committee to determine whether violations should result in revocation of titles or if penalties should be imposed, with the option for conversion upon payment of the appropriate fees.
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“This must be handled in line with existing regulations,” he said.
The committee has also been given two weeks to submit a report with recommendations. Wike reiterated that the process must remain free from interference.
“We want the public to know that the FCT Administration is addressing these issues,” he added.
Members of the River Park Committee include the Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Lands, the Deputy Director of Lands, and the Directors of Security Services, Development Control, and AGIS.
Members of the land use review committee include the Directors of Land Administration, Surveying and Mapping, AGIS, and Engineering Services.
