The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed allegations that he is involved in land grabbing, insisting that all land acquisitions carried out under his administration are lawful and in the public interest.

Wike made the remarks during the inauguration of the Federal High Court Judges’ Quarters in the Katampe area of Abuja, one of the projects commissioned to mark the third anniversary of the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Represented at the event by Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu witnessed the unveiling of the housing project designed for judges.

Explaining the circumstances surrounding the acquisition of the land, Wike said the property originally belonged to Julius Berger PLC but had remained undeveloped for about 15 years.

“When we came here looking for land to build judges’ quarters, there was no road. Last year, Mr President commissioned all the roads within Katampe,” he said.

According to the minister, the FCT Administration reclaimed the land after discovering that it had not been developed despite being allocated many years ago.

“This land belonged to Julius Berger. When I checked the records and saw that it had remained undeveloped for 15 years, I decided to take it back for the construction of judges’ quarters,” he stated.

Wike said critics on social media labelled him a land grabber over the decision, but he ignored the criticism because he was focused on achieving results.

“All over social media they called me a land grabber, but I didn’t bother because I knew where I was going. Any politician who is not criticised is not a politician,” he said.

The minister further disclosed that surrounding properties have also been acquired to create a dedicated judicial district, which will be known as the “Judges Zone.”

“We have acquired every property around this area and it will be designated as a Judges Zone. We do not want any other development within the vicinity. Property owners affected by the acquisition will be compensated accordingly,” Wike added.

I’m Not a Land Grabber, I’m Simply Doing My Job — Wike

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