Buhari, others affected as Wike revokes 762 Maitama land titles

Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revoked ownership of 762 plots in Abuja’s Maitama 1 District, citing non-payment of statutory fees.

Among those affected are prominent figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) also issued a two-week ultimatum to 614 other allottees, warning them to settle outstanding Rights of Occupancy (R-of-O) fees or face similar action.

“The Federal Capital Territory Administration wishes to inform the allottee(s)/title holder(s) of plots of land in Maitama 1 who have failed to make payment for their Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) bills that their Right of Occupancy to the land/property has been withdrawn,” the FCTA announced, referencing Section 28 of the Land Use Act of 1978, which empowers the minister to revoke rights of occupancy for non-compliance with payment obligations or breaches of allocation terms.

The revocation list includes notable names such as the Muhammadu Buhari Trust Foundation, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, and former governors Rochas Okorocha and Ben Ayade. Others affected include Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno and Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen.

Since assuming office in August 2023, Wike has made it clear that enforcing accountability in Abuja’s land administration is a priority. Speaking on the exercise, Wike stated, “When we make the right decision, some people will be happy, and some will not. The rich will kick against some of our decisions, but anything that will help our people must be done.”

This latest revocation follows a similar move in September when the minister revoked 165 undeveloped plots across the FCT, including those linked to Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi. Wike justified these actions, saying, “We are prioritising the public good. These reforms may not favour everyone, especially the elite, but they are necessary to restore accountability and fairness in land allocation.”