By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju has strongly criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over his controversial land revocations in Abuja. Adeyanju, in a passionate post on X (formerly Twitter), declared that all land allegedly seized by Wike would be reclaimed, labeling the minister a “land grabber.” He further argued that if previous FCT Ministers from northern Nigeria couldn’t successfully seize land in Abuja, Wike, whom he disparagingly referred to as a “villager of Obio/Akpor,” was “too small” to achieve such a feat.
“Even Northerners who were FCT Ministers couldn’t steal Abuja land, is it now villager of Obio/Akpor wearing fake designers and looking like a clown that will steal Abuja land? Wike is too small,” Adeyanju wrote.
This fierce condemnation comes amid ongoing protests and tension surrounding the demolition of structures in the FCT, with accusations that Wike has been reallocating lands to his allies, arguing that many of the buildings are illegal and pose security risks.
Adeyanju’s comments reflect the deep political rifts surrounding the control of land in Abuja, with accusations that those in power are prioritizing personal gain over the public good. While Wike defends his actions based on security and legal concerns, Adeyanju’s words suggest a broader distrust of the minister’s motives and authority. This intensifying battle over landownership underscores the complex dynamics in Nigeria’s capital and points to the need for clearer, more transparent land policies to avoid further unrest.
