On September 21, 2023, Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory FCT Minister, announced that 167 plots of land in affluent areas of Abuja were revoked. This decision has reportedly affected Mr. Peter Obi, who is a presidential candidate for the Labour Party in 2023.
According to a notice released in Abuja by the FCT minister, plots of land were revoked due to the allottees’ failure to develop them. Vanguard reported that the revocations affected areas such as Maitama, Gudu, Wuye, Katampe, Katampe Extension, Wuse 2, Jabi, Utako, Idu Industrial Zone, and Asokoro.
The highest number of revocations, at 41, was in Maitama, Gudu, and Wuye, while Katampe, Katampe Extension, Wuse 2, Jabi, Utako, Idu Industrial zone, and Asokoro had the second-highest number of revocations, at 39.
“The Federal Capital Territory Administration FCTA hereby informs the general public that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory has, in the exercise of the powers conferred on him under Section 28(5)(a) & (b) of the Land Use Act 1978, revoked the under listed plots with names and titles as reflected in our records for continued contravention of the terms of development of the Right of Occupancy to wit non-development”, the administration said in the notice signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mr Olusade Adesola.
In the Katampe district area of the state, some plots that were given to individuals like Peter Gregory Obi and BUA International have been taken back. Additionally, Wike has promised to stop open cattle grazing within the capital city. He has clearly stated that grazing of cattle will no longer be permitted within the city center and that Fulani herders will be required to take their cows outside the city for grazing. As stated by Mr. Wike, discussions will be held with the herdsmen to find an appropriate solution. According to him, cows should not be allowed inside the city but can graze outside of it.