Viral report alleges large-scale land allocations to minister’s son, but evidence raises key questions
A recent viral investigation by Peoples Gazette claims that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, allocated over 2,000 hectares of Abuja land—estimated at $3.6 billion—to his son, Joaquin Wike, between October 2024 and May 2025. The article alleges systemic land grabbing, abuse of office, and conflict of interest.
TJ News Nigeria examines the credibility of this explosive claim, the legal framework around land allocation in the FCT, and whether the documents cited support the allegations of corruption.
The Claim
- That Nyesom Wike, as FCT Minister, awarded over 2,082 hectares of land to his son through a company named Joaq Farms and Estates Ltd, registered in October 2024.
- That these allocations occurred across Maitama, Asokoro, Gaduwa, and other high-value areas.
- That Wike allegedly signed multiple Certificates of Occupancy (C of Os) without remitting required fees (ground rent, title registration, etc.).
- That the total value of the land is conservatively estimated at $3.6 billion.
- That Wike seized land from diplomatic and private owners, reassigning it to his son.
- That the allocations violated Section 1 of the Fifth Schedule of the 1999 Constitution (Code of Conduct for Public Officers).
Verification Process
1. Company Registration Verified
TJ News Nigeria confirmed that Joaq Farms and Estates Ltd was registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) on October 10, 2024. The address listed—13, Thaba Tseka Street, Wuse II, Abuja—has been previously associated with Mr. Wike and his family.
2. Alleged Land Allocation Files
Peoples Gazette cited file numbers 155882, 159134 to 159140, with one file (159135) missing. These allocations were allegedly signed by Wike himself and issued to Joaq Farms. However, no official FCTA publication or registry has confirmed the authenticity of these documents publicly.
- The FCT Department of Lands Administration has not released any public response or gazette confirming or denying the allocations as of this publication.
- Multiple FOI (Freedom of Information) requests to verify these certificates are still pending.
3. Legal Implication: Is It Illegal?
No Nigerian law explicitly prohibits an FCT Minister from allocating land to family members. However:
- Section 5, Part I, Fifth Schedule of the 1999 Constitution bars public officers from “putting themselves in a position where their personal interest conflicts with their duties.”
- The Public Procurement Act and FCT Land Use Manual also warn against self-dealing, especially where public resources are used for private gain.
Thus, even if legally permissible, the alleged transactions raise serious ethical and anti-corruption concerns, especially given the scale.
What Is Not Verified
- $3.6 Billion Valuation: The estimate is based on premium market rates in Maitama and Asokoro, but most of the 2,000+ hectares allegedly allocated are located in Guzape, Gaduwa, Kwaita, and Bwari, where land values are significantly lower.
- Seizure of Austrian Diplomatic Land: No formal statement from the Austrian embassy has confirmed that its land was reallocated.
- No Photographic or Physical Survey Evidence: While digital file numbers were referenced, no physical land survey map or registry stamp was provided.
- Unclear Source of Information: The report relies heavily on anonymous aides and unverified internal documents.
Official Response
When contacted, Lere Olayinka, spokesperson for Wike, stated:
“I am not aware of any development as such and can’t give comments on what I don’t have knowledge of.”
The Presidency has not issued a statement as of June 26, 2025, though internal sources claim the allegations have sparked concern within the Federal Executive Council.
Expert Opinion
Speaking to TJ News Nigeria, public ethics analyst Barr. Patience Okonkwo said:
“While allocation of land to a family member isn’t automatically criminal, the scale and opacity here demand investigation. Abuse of office includes any act that places private interests above public duty, even if not explicitly prohibited.”
Conclusion: PARTIALLY TRUE
- ✅ A company linked to Wike’s son was registered in October 2024.
- ⚠️ Document references and file numbers have not been independently verified.
- ⚠️ The valuation and number of hectares remain disputed.
- ❌ No official registry or gazette confirms allocation of 2,082 hectares to Joaquin Wike.
- ❌ No direct evidence that Wike violated a specific law, though ethical violations are likely if proven.
Verdict:
Claim that Nyesom Wike allocated 2,082 hectares of land worth $3.6 billion to his son is PARTIALLY TRUE but requires further independent verification.
