By Uzair Adam
Former President Muhammadu Buhari has refuted claims of owning a piece of land recently revoked by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) in Abuja.
The controversy stems from Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike’s announcement of the revocation of 762 plots of land in the Maitama 1 District due to non-payment of statutory fees.
Among the high-profile names reportedly affected are former President Buhari and ex-Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen.
Additionally, the FCTA has issued a two-week ultimatum to 614 individuals and organizations to settle outstanding Rights of Occupancy (R-of-O) fees or risk losing their plots.
However, in a statement released by his media aide, Garba Shehu, Buhari denied ownership of the land in question, which had been allocated in the name of a “Muhammadu Buhari Foundation.”
He clarified that the foundation was independently established by well-meaning individuals and not directly linked to him.
“Shehu explained, “When the former President and his cabinet members were invited to apply for land during his tenure, he declined the offer, stating he already owned a plot in the FCT. He suggested the land be allocated to those without one.”
The statement further noted that the Muhammadu Buhari Foundation encountered challenges in obtaining the certificate of occupancy due to an exorbitant bill from the land department of the FCDA, which eventually led to the revocation.
“Those speculating about Buhari’s alleged land ownership should verify their facts and avoid spreading misinformation,” Shehu added.
The media aide emphasized that Buhari has no personal connection to the revoked land, as he owns only one plot of land in the Federal Capital Territory.