Former President Muhammadu Buhari has refuted claims of personal ownership of a plot of land in Abuja recently revoked by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The land in question, located in the upscale Maitama district, is one of 762 plots whose Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) were revoked due to non-payment of statutory fees. Additionally, 614 other plot owners have been given a two-week ultimatum to clear outstanding payments or risk losing their Rights of Occupancy (R-of-O).
Buhari’s Response
In a statement on Thursday, Buhari’s spokesperson, Garba Shehu, clarified that the land in question was allocated to the Muhammadu Buhari Foundation, not the former president personally. Shehu explained that the foundation, created by individuals close to Buhari, faced difficulties in obtaining the required certificate of occupancy due to an unexpectedly high and inconsistent fee imposed by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
“The Foundation was floated by some well-meaning individuals around him in a lawful manner. However, they encountered a roadblock when the FCDA presented an exorbitant bill, far higher than fees charged to similar organizations. The revocation of the land, therefore, is not a surprise,” Shehu stated.
Buhari’s Stance on Land Allocation
Shehu also emphasized that Buhari, during his presidency, declined additional land allocations in Abuja. “When invited to apply for land alongside his cabinet members, he returned the form unfilled, stating he already owned a plot in the FCT and that others who lacked land should be prioritized,” Shehu added.
Other Affected Notables
Among those impacted by the revocation are former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Walter Onnoghen, Speaker of the House of Representatives Abbas Tajudeen, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume and his wife, Regina, as well as Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani.
Clarifying Misconceptions
Shehu urged the public to verify facts before speculating on the issue. “Let those spreading misinformation stop dragging the former president’s name into unwarranted controversies,” he said.
This development underscores the broader crackdown on defaulting landowners in Abuja, as Wike continues to enforce compliance with statutory obligations.
