The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged to address long-standing land ownership grievances of indigenous communities in Abuja by ensuring they receive Certificates of Occupancy (Cs of O) for their ancestral lands.
Wike made the commitment during a “thank you” visit to the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) at Apo Town Hall on Wednesday. He acknowledged the pain of original inhabitants over displacement and lack of formal land titles, assuring them that his administration was already working toward a solution.
“I know how painful land issues can be. I will do everything possible to ensure you have your Cs of O. We are not making promises for the future; we are here now and ready to act,” he said.
The minister stressed that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is focused on practical governance and recognition of host communities across the territory.
“We must change the pattern of politics in Abuja. Wherever you go, there are people there, and they must be recognized,” he stated.
Wike also cautioned residents against what he described as “emergency human rights activists” and “emergency democrats” who only identify with the grassroots during election periods. He criticized former public office holders who, according to him, neglected rural infrastructure while in power but now present themselves as defenders of the people.
“As you see me here, you know what I can do and what I cannot do. I will not deceive you. I will tell you the truth,” he added.
Highlighting ongoing infrastructure efforts, including the recently commissioned Saburi Road in AMAC, Wike emphasized that governance must be mutually beneficial.
“Relationship must not be one-sided. If you do for me, I must do for you. When you fulfill your part, I must fulfill mine without excuses,” he said.
He urged the Council Chairman-elect, Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, to remain accessible to the people, assuring residents that the FCT Administration remains committed to ensuring that the federal government’s Renewed Hope agenda is felt across all communities in the territory.
