Buhari reacts as Wike takes bold action over 762 plots of land in Abuja, issues statement

Garba Shehu, former spokesperson for ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has addressed reports that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) revoked a plot of land allocated to the former Nigerian leader.

News Direct reported that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike revoked 762 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) in Maitama 1 over unpaid fees, targeting prominent figures and firms.

Wike gave 614 other plot owners two weeks to settle outstanding payments or face losing their Rights of Occupancy (R-of-O).

According to reports, Ex-President Buhari’s Trust Foundation, Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, and firms like Julius Berger are among those impacted by the revocations.

Reacting to the news, the former presidential spokesperson clarified on Wednesday, December 18, that the land in question does not belong to the former president personally but was lawfully acquired for the foundation by associates.

He said: “While the reasons behind the revocation remain unclear, it might stem from either an error or intentional administrative actions.

“Buhari, as an individual, already owns a plot of land in Abuja, allocated to him before his presidency.

“During his tenure, Buhari declined an additional land offer, stating that priority should be given to those without allocations.”

Shehu urged critics to verify facts before drawing conclusions and cautioned against dragging Buhari’s name into unnecessary controversies.

The Foundation, established by associates of the former president with lawful backing from supporters, encountered challenges with the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).

The authority issued a certificate of occupancy fee deemed exorbitant and reportedly inconsistent with charges faced by similar organisations.