By Abdullahi Lukman
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has inaugurated two high-level committees to address land disputes at River Park Estate and investigate widespread abuse of the Land Use Act within the FCT.
Inaugurating the committees on Saturday in Abuja, Wike described the initiatives as crucial to resolving pressing land administration issues and restoring adherence to the Abuja Master Plan.
The land disputes committee, chaired by the General Counsel and Secretary of the Legal Services Secretariat, Barr. Salman Dako, is tasked with resolving ownership and development issues within River Park Estate.
The minister noted recurring violations of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between estate developers and the FCT Administration, despite clear terms.
Wike emphasized that the committee has two weeks to conclude its work, with no room for extension.
He warned members against interference from individuals or departments, particularly Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS), stressing that any obstruction must be reported immediately.
The Land Use Act committee is to focus on reviewing the misuse of land across the city where plots originally designated for residential or other specific uses are now being exploited for commercial purposes without approval.
It is chaired by the Director of Development Control, TPL Muktar Galadima.
The minister said these violations undermine the integrity of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) issued under the Abuja Master Plan.
Areas under scrutiny include high-profile districts like Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse I and II, Garki, and the Central Business Area.
He directed the committee to recommend appropriate actions, which may include penalties, revocation of titles, or formal conversion processes.
Like the first committee, this team also has a two-week deadline and must operate independently of internal or external influence.
Both committees include senior officials from key FCT departments such as Land Administration, Urban and Regional Planning, AGIS, Development Control, Security Services, and Engineering Services.
Wike said the move is part of the administration’s broader commitment to enforcing land regulations and ensuring accountability.
