Wike orders cleanup of Jabi Lake shanties, insists on master plans compliance

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has directed the removal of shanties and the cleanup of underdeveloped plots around Jabi Lake, citing non-compliance with the Abuja master plan and the need to restore the area’s aesthetic and commercial value.

The directive follows public reactions to a viral video in which a cleric cautioned against moves that could restrict public access to the lake, a prominent recreational hub in Abuja.

The appeal, which framed the lake as a shared public asset, triggered concerns over potential over-commercialisation.

Read also: PDP crisis deepens as Wike alleges fraud, dares Turaki led faction to open secretariat

Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike dismissed the concerns as “emotional,” reiterating that all actions by the FCT Administration are anchored on statutory provisions and urban planning guidelines.

According to him, several plots around the lake, initially allocated for premium developments, have remained idle for over a decade, with some now occupied by makeshift structures that undermine the area’s intended use.

“They proposed developments comparable to global standards, but what exists today falls short,” he said, noting that such conditions are inconsistent with the capital city’s positioning.

Wike disclosed that the administration has commenced revocation of affected land titles, warning that speculative holding of prime land without development would no longer be tolerated.

Under existing regulations, he said, allottees are required to meet specified development timelines or risk forfeiture. “Failure to comply results in the land reverting to the government for reallocation to capable developers,” he added.

The minister clarified that the exercise is not aimed at limiting public access to the lake but at enforcing compliance and ensuring proper land use.

Read also: Wike seeks EU partnership on infrastructure, security, investment in FCT

He also raised concerns over the unauthorised conversion of designated land, citing instances where recreational spaces were repurposed without approval, including for religious use.

Wike emphasised that the ongoing measures are part of broader efforts to align the development of Jabi Lake with international standards while preserving its status as a public amenity.