Nyesom Wike, Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has dismissed allegations that he is primarily focused on seizing land owned by individuals within the territory.
While speaking at a Thanksgiving service hosted by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ahoada East and West local government areas of Rivers State, the former governor emphasized that his role involves addressing issues related to land grabs rather than participating in them.
Wike expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the nation as the FCT minister, stating, “The individuals engaged in land grabbing are precisely the ones I am addressing. That’s why we must appreciate Mr. President; without this opportunity, we might not fully understand the challenges facing our country.”
He added, “People may label my actions as controversial, but if being controversial means advocating for what is right, then I gladly embrace that title.”
Wike further argued that it would be illogical for him to seize land that he is responsible for overseeing. “When people talk about land grabbing, how can I take what I am already in charge of? I oversee land in Abuja; why would I go after something that is under my authority?” he questioned.