Gbenga Omokhunu September 13, 2023
Those involved in illegal land transactions in Abuja would henceforth have it rough, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, warned yesterday.
Wike vowed not to do everything within the ambit of the law to sharp practices, which he described as “unacceptable”.
The minister gave the warning at the inauguration of FCTA Mandate Secretaries. The secretaries are at par with commissioners in the states.
Wike implicated the legal department of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) of connivance in the award of $800 million garnishee order which was recently set aside by the Court of the Appeal.
Expressing displeasure over the land transactions in the FCT, he said: “So many things – land racketeers conniving with those going to court against the interest of FCTA. But we shall not accept that.”
The minister said the development would adversely affect the economy of the FCTA and its ability to meet its obligations.
He said: “I am determined to get to the bottom of this matter and ensure that such situations do not recur. Transparency and accountability will be hallmarks of our administration.”
Those inaugurated as Mandate Secretaries are: Bitrus Garki (Area Council Services); Lawan Geidam (Agriculture and Rural Development); Danlami Ihayyo (Education); Dr Adedolapo Fasawe (Health and Environment Services); Salman Dako (Legal Services); Chinedum Elechi (Economic Planning, Revenue Generation and Public Private Partnership) and Uboku Nyah (Transportation).
Wike told the secretaries that he was unimpressed with his observations and assessments over the past few weeks following his appointment as the FCT minister.
Wike charged them to address with determination and urgency the issues regarding the FCTA procurement processes, adding that transparency, efficiency and accountability must become the cornerstones of the administration.
He urged them to deploy their experiences in the journey of transformation and renewal of the FCT, noting they have a duty to translate the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu into tangible actions that will shape the future of the nation’s capital.
Wike said: “I urge you to approach your responsibilities with unwavering dedication, for service is a privilege that often demands sacrifices. Be prepared to make those sacrifices, as our mission is greater than any one of us.
“Your appointment to these crucial positions reflects not only your individual capabilities but also the collective trust and expectations that the government and the people of the FCT have placed in you.
“Our President has entrusted us with the monumental task of rebuilding and developing the FCT into a world-class city. To achieve this, we must address several key areas that are essential for the progress of our city and the well-being of our residents.
“Environmental sanitation is another pressing concern, as expressed by our residents. Clean and well-maintained surroundings are not only a reflection of our city’s pride but also a fundamental requirement for a healthy and prosperous community. It is a collective responsibility of both the government and the citizens, and we must work collaboratively to ensure a cleaner and greener FCT.
“Security, an equally shared responsibility, is paramount to the well-being of our residents. We will collaborate closely with law enforcement agencies and communities to ensure a safe and secure environment for all. Without security, we cannot hope to achieve our development goals.”
Wike directed that due attention be given to the development of satellite towns, boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) profile, restore Abuja Master Plan and address comprehensively the challenge of public transportation, security, tourism, education and sanitation.
He specifically urged Nyah to resuscitate the Abuja metro for the President to have a ride on, warning his job is on line if he fails to meet that target and revive the Abuja Urban Mass Transit Buses.
