The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly defended the FCT Administration’s policy of allocating land to diplomatic personnel, responding to ongoing criticism.
Wike spoke on Thursday during an inspection of ongoing projects across the FCT. He dismissed the critics, accusing them of hypocrisy, noting that many of those questioning the policy had previously benefited from similar land allocations in the past.
According to Wike, land allocation is a standard government procedure designed to encourage investment and urban development. He criticized media organizations attacking the policy, describing them as profit-driven businesses rather than charitable institutions. Wike pointed out that media houses charge for advertisements, live coverage, and commercial news to sustain their operations.
“When you live in a glass house, don’t throw stones,” Wike said. “You were given land, and you are not among the poor, so why complain now?”
The minister also addressed claims that the FCT Administration was selling land, emphasizing that the administration does not sell land but rather allocates it based on development agreements and investment conditions.
“The FCT does not sell land; it allocates it based on specific conditions. All allottees, including diplomats, must pay processing fees for their Certificates of Occupancy,” Wike clarified.
He also pointed out that many of the disputed allocations were made by previous administrations. Wike stressed that the government remains a continuous institution, irrespective of leadership changes.
The minister further emphasized that allocated land must be developed according to the agreed terms, citing the example of Jabi Lake, where land allocated over two decades ago remained undeveloped. The government reclaimed this land and reassigned it to new investors.
Wike dismissed emotional arguments that prime land should only be given to the poor, stating that high-value locations require significant investment to become world-class attractions.
“I will always stand by the truth,” Wike affirmed, adding that his administration would prioritize realistic development over seeking public approval.
