ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has ignited a firestorm of criticism after announcing a 30-day ultimatum for property owners to reverse land use violations or face a ₦5 million fine and additional penalties. The directive, which includes a 7.5% surcharge on the Assessed Capital Value of affected properties, has drawn backlash from residents and civil society groups who accuse the minister of wielding power with little regard for due process.
Wike, speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, defended the move as a necessary step to restore order and generate revenue for infrastructure projects. “We are looking for money to carry on projects. If you fall into our trap, it is your business,” he said, warning that non-compliant landowners risk title revocation and resale. But critics say the language and tone of the announcement reflect a troubling shift toward authoritarian governance.
“This is not governance; it’s extortion,” said Ibrahim Musa, a business owner in Gwarinpa whose property was flagged for non-compliant use. “We were never consulted. Now we’re being threatened with multimillion-naira fines and demolition. It’s like living under a dictatorship.” Other residents expressed fear and confusion over the sudden enforcement. “I’ve lived here for 12 years. No one ever told me my land use was wrong,” said Grace Okonkwo, a widow in Kubwa. “Now I’m expected to pay millions or lose my home?”
Legal experts have also raised concerns about the constitutionality of the directive. “The Land Use Act provides for enforcement, but not arbitrary fines without a transparent hearing,” said Barrister Chinedu Eze, a property rights advocate. “This sets a dangerous precedent for executive overreach.” Some activists are calling for a judicial review of the policy and urging the National Assembly to intervene.
Despite the backlash, Wike has shown no signs of backing down. His administration insists the crackdown is part of a broader effort to sanitize the FCT and reclaim illegally converted plots. But with mounting public anger and threats of legal action, the minister may soon face more than just land disputes — he could be battling a full-blown political crisis.
