Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has recounted his decision to revoke the certificate of occupancy (C of O) for certain plots of land allocated to the German construction giant Julius Berger in the Katampe District of Abuja. Wike made this revelation during the official Flag-Off Ceremony for the Design and Construction of 40 Judges’ Quarters in the capital on Monday.
The event saw attendance from prominent dignitaries, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and the President of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem. Wike announced that 70% of the funds for the judges’ quarters project had already been released following its approval by the Federal Executive Council last month. The construction will comprise 40 units, with 20 designated for the FCT High Court, 10 for the Federal High Court, and 10 for the Court of Appeal.
During his address, Wike emphasized the importance of post-retirement housing for judges, noting that it protects them from manipulation, interference, and various temptations.
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Reflecting on how the land was acquired, Wike shared, “When we were looking for where to get land to build, I drove around and found this empty land with a big sign saying ‘Julius Berger.’ After confirming the land’s ownership and learning it had been allocated about 15 to 20 years ago without any development, I decided to take action.”
He recounted inviting the Managing Director of Julius Berger for dinner, where he did not mention the land. The following day, the MD visited Wike’s office to find a revocation letter awaiting him. Wike recalled the MD’s surprise, stating, “But I had dinner with you.” Wike responded, “Yes, but we didn’t discuss the land. How can the government allocate land for more than 20 years without any development? Thankfully, they did not develop it, and now we can have it.”
