"Controversy Surrounds FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Over Land Allocations"

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, is embroiled in controversy over allegations of allocating prime Abuja land to his family members and close allies. A recent report claims that Wike allocated over 2,000 hectares of land, valued at $3.6 billion, to his son, Joaquin Wike, sparking widespread criticism and calls for investigation.

Denial and Clarification

Wike's media aide, Lere Olayinka, has vehemently denied the allegations, stating that the report is "malicious falsehood" and "blackmail" against the minister. Olayinka clarified that the company linked to Wike's son, JOAQ Farms and Estates Ltd, received a land allocation in Bwari for agricultural purposes, not in high-end areas like Maitama or Asokoro as claimed.

Land Reforms and Revocation

Meanwhile, Wike has been enforcing land reforms in the FCT, revoking land allocations from defaulters, including high-profile individuals like former President Ibrahim Babangida and Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno. Olayinka emphasized that Wike's administration will not spare anyone who fails to regularize their land allocations, regardless of status or relationship with the minister.

Ongoing Probe and Senate Scrutiny

The controversy has sparked an outrage, with many questioning Wike's motives and the transparency of his administration's land allocation processes. The Senate has also taken notice, with plans to scrutinize Wike's actions over the land revocations and allocations.

Key Points

- Land Allocation Controversy: Wike accused of allocating prime Abuja land to family members and close allies.

- Denial and Clarification: Wike's media aide denies allegations, citing agricultural purposes for land allocation.

- Land Reforms: Wike's administration enforces land reforms, revoking allocations from defaulters.

- Ongoing Probe: Senate plans to scrutinize Wike's actions over land revocations and allocations.