Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, is at the center of a growing controversy following reports alleging that he has intensified unauthorized allocations of prime Abuja land, including a staggering 2,082 hectares reportedly gifted to his son, Joaquin Wike.
According to multiple unconfirmed reports circulating on social media and some online platforms, the lands in question are located in some of Abuja’s most prestigious districts, including Maitama and Asokoro. The total estimated value of the allegedly allocated land is pegged at over $3.6 billion (approximately ₦5.4 trillion), sparking outrage among civil society groups, residents, and political observers.
Critics have described the move as a continuation of what they call “mindless looting” of Abuja’s most valuable real estate, accusing Wike of personalizing public assets under the guise of ministerial discretion. While official documents confirming the land allocations are yet to be made public, the alleged scale of the allocation has raised serious concerns over transparency and accountability in land administration under his leadership.
Several advocacy groups have called on President Bola Tinubu to investigate the allegations and suspend any transactions related to the affected parcels of land. Some have also petitioned anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to probe the FCT Administration.
As of the time of reporting, neither the FCT Ministry nor Minister Wike has issued an official response to the allegations. Efforts by journalists to get clarification from ministry spokespersons have so far been unsuccessful.
This is not the first time Wike has faced criticism over land policies since assuming office as FCT Minister. His tenure has been marked by a series of high-profile demolitions and land revocations, which he has defended as part of efforts to restore Abuja’s original master plan. However, opposition voices argue that these actions often target the vulnerable while enriching a politically connected elite.
The alleged land allocation to Joaquin Wike, who has remained largely out of the public eye, has further fueled speculation about nepotism and abuse of office. Critics argue that such a large and strategic land grant to a family member of a sitting minister undermines public trust and sets a dangerous precedent for governance in the nation’s capital.
If proven true, the scandal could have far-reaching implications for the Tinubu administration, which has pledged to uphold integrity and fight corruption across all sectors of government.
This is a developing story, and more details are expected to emerge as investigations progress.
