Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike recently expressed surprise over allegations of land appropriation in Abuja following a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting. This statement was made during the inauguration of the Mabushi Bus Terminal construction project in Abuja, an event reported by The Nation.
Wike, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Governor of Rivers State, shared his astonishment at receiving a text accusing him of taking someone's land. He explained that upon investigating the claim, it was discovered that the land in question already had a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) and a Consent Judgment involving the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and some individuals.
Addressing the attendees, Wike highlighted the infrastructural deficiencies in Abuja, emphasizing the city's potential to be one of the best in the world. He stated, "This is supposed to be one of the best cities in the world. This is supposed to be a first-class city, but how can it be one of the best cities in the world when the infrastructures that make that kind of city are not available? It will be difficult. A first-class city cannot be actualized when the infrastructures are not present."
Wike further elaborated on the specific issues plaguing Abuja, particularly the lack of organized transportation infrastructure. He pointed out the absence of proper bus and taxi terminals, which contributes to the city's security problems. "A city like Abuja does not have a Bus and Taxi terminal. You will see taxis all over the place and that, of course, is part of our insecurity problems. So many people talk about 'one chance,' why won’t there be 'one chance' when you don’t even know the man whose bus or taxi you are entering?"
These remarks underscore Wike's commitment to improving Abuja's infrastructure to enhance its status as a leading global city. His observations also reflect a broader concern about urban planning and security in Nigeria's capital. As the construction of the Mabushi Bus Terminal commences, it is expected to address some of these infrastructural challenges and contribute to the overall safety and organization of the city.