Former Presidential Spokesman, Garba Shehu, has dismissed reports linking former President Muhammadu Buhari to a parcel of land revoked by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. According to Shehu, the land in question is registered under the Muhammadu Buhari Foundation, not personally owned by the former president.
The clarification comes in response to a recent announcement by Wike that the FCT Administration had revoked 167 plots of land allegedly allocated to prominent individuals. Among those named in the media reports were the Buhari Trust Fund, former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Walter Onnoghen, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume, and several others.
In a statement titled “Nothing Like Loss of Buhari Land in Abuja,” Shehu sought to dispel any misconceptions about the revocation. He described the situation as a case of “misinformation and bureaucratic missteps” and emphasized that the Muhammadu Buhari Foundation lawfully obtained the land.
“The foundation was established by well-meaning individuals around former President Buhari. These individuals, with the support of many good-hearted persons, ensured that everything was done in accordance with the law,” Shehu explained.
Highlighting Buhari’s personal stance on land ownership, Shehu revealed that the former president owns only one plot of land in Abuja. He further noted that during Buhari’s presidency, he rejected offers for additional land allocations.
“As an individual, former President Buhari has a single plot of land registered in his name in Abuja. When he and members of his cabinet were invited to apply for land during his tenure, he returned the form without filling it out. He made it clear that his priority was for those without land to be given the opportunity, as he already owned one,” Shehu stated.
The revocation of lands by Minister Wike has sparked widespread discussion, given the prominence of those affected. The minister’s decision is reportedly part of efforts to address irregularities in land allocation in the FCT. While the move has drawn praise from some quarters as a bid to restore accountability, it has also faced criticism for its sweeping implications.
As the debate continues, Shehu’s statement seeks to set the record straight on Buhari’s involvement, underscoring the former president’s integrity and selflessness during his time in office.
