Wike Nullifies Area Council Land Documents Over Verification Failures
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has nullified 485 land documents issued by Area Councils in Abuja, citing failure to pass official verification processes and confirmation that several of the applications were fraudulent.
In a statement released by the FCT Administration, the minister explained that the affected documents did not comply with established procedures for land allocation and registration, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the documentation process at the Area Council level. Some of the land titles were discovered to have been issued without proper approvals, while others were linked to fake or manipulated applications.
Wike described the development as part of a broader effort to sanitize the land administration system in the Federal Capital Territory and restore confidence among investors, residents, and stakeholders. He emphasized that land administration must be transparent, credible, and in line with existing laws to prevent disputes, fraud, and illegal land transactions.
“The FCT will not tolerate any form of illegal land allocation, racketeering, or falsification of documents,” the minister was quoted as saying. He directed that all invalidated land documents be withdrawn immediately and warned that officials found culpable in the issuance of fraudulent documents would face investigation and possible disciplinary action.
The FCT Administration also urged landowners and applicants to ensure their documents are verified through the appropriate government agencies to avoid future complications. Officials noted that genuine landholders would be protected, while fraudulent claims would be dealt with decisively.
Land administration has long been a contentious issue in Abuja, with cases of multiple allocations, forged documents, and disputes between individuals and government authorities frequently reported. Analysts say the nullification of the documents could help reduce land-related conflicts and strengthen the credibility of the FCT’s land registry system.
The move aligns with Wike’s ongoing reforms aimed at improving governance, enhancing transparency, and curbing corruption in the Federal Capital Territory. Stakeholders believe the action could send a strong signal to land racketeers and officials involved in illegal practices, while reassuring investors of the government’s commitment to due process and lawful land administration.
As the FCT continues its reform agenda, authorities have pledged to tighten verification procedures and modernize land records to prevent future irregularities.
