Wike:  I Can Implement Land Reforms in Abuja Without New Laws

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike yesterday insisted that he has the authority as the minister to implement land reforms without the need for additional enabling legislation.

He asserted this after a routine inspection of some major infrastructure projects, noting that land administration reforms in the FCT were aimed at combating speculation and accelerating the development of the nation’s capital.

The minister said the reforms were designed to discourage individuals from holding onto land allocations for speculative purposes, often waiting for market appreciation before selling.

“We are trying to stop land speculators. Somebody who says he wants land in Abuja but cannot develop it in two years, that’s land speculation. Secondly, if you have been given allocation, you should be able to pay within 21 days to have your C of O. What is wrong with that? That’s also to generate funds for the government,” Wike said.

He also doused concerns regarding the 21-day deadline for the payment of associated fees for the issuance of Certificate of Occupancy.

“Why would you not pay your fees within 21 days? What is wrong with it? There is nothing wrong. You cannot apply for land and then you don’t have money to pay for the C of O. It doesn’t make sense. 21 days is enough,” he maintained.

The project sites visited included the 15-kilometre Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) connecting Apo and Wasa Districts, the Mabushi Bus Terminal, and the Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way) and its interchanges linking Jahi to the Kubwa/Zuba expressway and Jabi/Utako Districts.

The minister also frowned on the quality of finishing by the contractor at Mabushi Bus Terminal, warning the Secretary of Transport, Dr Elechi Chinedum that no project that fails to meet standard will be commissioned next month by President Bola Tinubu to commemorate his second year anniversary.

“I have told the Secretary of Transport, a lot of work has to be done. I will not accept the finishing because finishing is key. We are happy with what we are seeing, but the finishing of structures like this is key.

“And I pointed out some of the things I thought should be corrected. The contractor must come back here to do what he is supposed to do, so we can invite the president to inaugurate the Mabushi Bus Terminal,” Wike said.