February 5, 2025 – The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions has summoned Chijioke Nwankwoeze, the Director of Lands in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to appear before it on Thursday. This summons follows a petition alleging corrupt practices and abuse of office.
Residents have accused the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, of land grabbing and reallocating properties to associates. The minister has denied these allegations and invited anyone with evidence to come forward.
The petition was submitted by the Centre for Social Justice, Equity and Transparency, asserting that Nwankwoeze owns private offices involved in land racketeering and money laundering. The committee, relying on constitutional provisions, has warned that failure to appear could lead to further proceedings.
Accusations against Minister Wike include claims that property owners received inadequate notice before their land was published for revocation. Rights activist Chief Rita Lori-Ogbebor has specifically highlighted the unjust revocation of property belonging to her late husband, alleging that it was reallocated to a company linked to a former member of the House of Representatives.
The committee aims to ensure a fair hearing for all parties involved and to address the concerns raised regarding land management in the FCT.
