TDThe Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered a sweeping crackdown on abandoned and poorly developed plots around Jabi Lake in Abuja.
Minister Wike described the area as an “eyesore” that undermines Abuja’s image as Nigeria’s capital city.
The directive comes in the wake of a viral video featuring a popular pastor who appealed to the minister to “leave Jabi Lake for Nigerians”.
He warned against developments that could restrict public access to the recreational hub.
The cleric’s remarks sparked widespread debate online.
Many Nigerians express concern that commercialisation could erode the lake’s status as a shared heritage and relaxation spot.
Dismissal of Emotional Appeals
Speaking during a media chat with journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike dismissed what he termed “emotional appeals”.
He insisted that his administration’s actions were guided strictly by law and the Abuja master plan.
“They told us they would build something like what you see in Dubai—a city walk, a proper entertainment centre.
“But what do you find there today? Shanties. Who will come and stay in such a place?” he queried.
According to the minister, portions of land around the lake had been allocated for high-end projects.
However, they were left undeveloped for over 15 years, eventually being overtaken by makeshift structures.
Revocation of Plots
Wike disclosed that the FCT Administration had already revoked some of the affected plots.
He stressed that Abuja would no longer tolerate speculative investors holding on to prime land without development.
“You must sign to develop within a given period. If you fail, the land returns to government. It is as simple as that,” he declared.
The minister emphasised that the measures were not aimed at depriving residents of access to Jabi Lake but at restoring order and ensuring proper development.
“We are not taking anything from the public.
“We are reclaiming land from those who failed to do what they were supposed to do or who converted it to unauthorised uses,” he explained.
Misuse of Land
Wike also condemned the misuse of designated land, citing a case where a recreational facility was converted into a place of worship without approval.
“You cannot take land meant for recreation and turn it into something else.
“That is not how a modern city operates. We will enforce compliance,” he warned.
The minister maintained that the goal is to improve the environment around Jabi Lake and align its development with global standards, while preserving its value as a public asset.
Public Reaction
The minister’s stance has drawn mixed reactions.
Supporters argue that Abuja’s master plan must be enforced to prevent the city from degenerating into disorderly settlements.
Meanwhile, critics fear that the crackdown could pave the way for elite-driven projects that limit ordinary Nigerians’ access to public spaces.
Urban development experts note that Jabi Lake has long been a contested site, balancing its role as a public recreational space with the lure of commercial investment.
Wike’s intervention, they say, reflects a broader push to reassert government control over Abuja’s urban planning.
As the debate intensifies, Wike’s message is clear: Abuja will not tolerate neglect or unauthorised use of prime land.
By revoking dormant plots and enforcing compliance, the FCT Administration aims to transform Jabi Lake into a modern entertainment and recreational hub.
Whether this move ultimately enhances public access or fuels fears of exclusion remains to be seen.
For now, the minister has drawn a firm line—emotional appeals will not override the law or the Abuja master plan.
