The Integrity and Transparency Watchdog, a civil society organization, has raised alarm over actions taken by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, regarding the allocation of a large tract of land in Usuma District, measuring 500 hectares, to a private entity. Dr. Ibrahim Sodangi, the National Convener of the organization, has urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene and prevent what they deem an alarming misuse of authority. The group also called upon the National Assembly to enforce its oversight functions to protect citizens from potential governmental overreach. They asserted that the land in question has already been claimed by numerous lawful occupants who possess valid Rights of Occupancy authorized by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
The situation has escalated following contentious land allocations made to Radcom Nigeria Limited, coinciding with a significant demolition campaign carried out by the FCT Administration under Minister Wike in October 2024. During this campaign, nearly 50 buildings were demolished in the Lugbe area of Abuja, leaving hundreds of residents displaced without adequate notice. Critics of Wike have alleged that his actions have disproportionately benefited his associates, thereby igniting strong opposition from the local community and real estate developers who stand to be harmed by these decisions.
In his statement, Dr. Sodangi highlighted the severe implications of Wike’s actions, warning that the appropriation of land from legitimate owners to accommodate a private development undermines established legal and ethical norms. He cautioned that this could create a perilous precedent for future land allocation practices that might encourage further administrative overreach and violate the rights of citizens. The organization has raised concerns regarding the transparency of the public land management process, noting that the official documentation for Plot No. 267 is already being prepared even amidst significant resistance from affected parties.
The Integrity and Transparency Watchdog has echoed a broader call for a commitment to the rule of law, emphasizing the need for governance that respects and upholds citizens’ rights. They are concerned that the administration appears to be prioritizing private interests over the established rights of land occupants, which could deter potential future investments in the region due to perceived instability and lack of legal protections. The group’s advocacy underscores the importance of a transparent and accountable governance framework, which is essential not just for maintaining public trust but also for fostering a healthy investment climate.
Officials in the FCT, particularly Minister Wike, have yet to fully respond to the growing concerns raised by civil society regarding their land allocation strategies and recent demolitions. The situation has highlighted the need for clearer communication and dialogue between the government and the affected communities to rebuild trust and ensure social cohesion. As citizen advocacy groups like the Integrity and Transparency Watchdog step forward, these actions reflect a vital aspect of democracy where civil society plays an essential role in holding authorities accountable.
The Integrity and Transparency Watchdog’s appeal to President Tinubu and the National Assembly represents a broader concern about the balance of power in governance and the protection of citizen rights against administrative overreach. As this situation unfolds, the eyes of various stakeholders, including civil society, the community of Usuma District, and potential investors, will remain fixed on how the government addresses these pressing issues related to land allocation and stakeholder rights.
