A coalition known as Concerned FCT Residents, in partnership with 65 civil society organizations (CSOs) in Nigeria, has leveled accusations against the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.
They claim he is undermining the Abuja Geographic Information System (AGIS) to assert his personal control over land in the FCT, mirroring his previous actions in Rivers State.
During a press conference held on Friday in Abuja, Comrade Hussani Abubakar Agare, the convener of the group, accused Wike of engaging in high-level corruption, mismanagement, and resource wastage within the FCT administration and AGIS.
According to the CSOs, Wike is suppressing any internal dissent from those who helped establish the system within the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
“You are likely to find out that the recent removal of the Director of Urban and Regional Planning may not have been unconnected with his agenda,” they asserted.
They added that under Wike’s leadership, individuals must either support his agenda to solidify his power or risk being sidelined.
Agare questioned whether the Minister truly understands the purpose behind the establishment of the Geographic Information System and land information system, which led to the creation of AGIS.
He highlighted that Abuja’s rapid population growth has made land transactions increasingly complicated, fraught with fraud and manipulation, often orchestrated by powerful business figures collaborating with officials in the FCTA and FCDA.
He pointed out that such crises often result in individuals losing their land or wealth, while the government suffers a loss in revenue. Agare emphasized that AGIS limits human involvement in processes, ensuring traceability and accountability for all actions taken.
He further criticized Wike for appointing his associates to key positions, indicating they would carry out his directives to transform Abuja into a personal estate.
Agare expressed concern that AGIS personnel might be replaced as the agency faces potential dismantling, with Wike’s allies set to take over operations and consolidate his power.
He also noted that the FCTA encompasses more than just land and road projects, highlighting that Abuja suffers from inadequate educational and healthcare facilities. “Just a few days ago, primary school teachers went on strike due to unpaid allowances and salaries.”
He mentioned the recent resignation of about 50 medical doctors who could no longer endure the poor working conditions in the FCT.
“Why are these issues not receiving the attention they deserve, or are they considered less important than road or land projects? The answer is better left to the imagination,” Agare concluded.
