In a fiery press briefing held in Abuja on June 2, 2025, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political and social elite with a bold declaration: “I derive joy stepping on the toes of big men.” The statement, delivered with Wike’s characteristic bluntness, underscores his unapologetic approach to governance and his determination to enforce discipline in the nation’s capital, even if it means clashing with the country’s most powerful figures. For residents of Abuja and observers of Nigerian politics, Wike’s words signal a continuation of his no-nonsense style, which has both earned him admiration and sparked controversy.
Wike’s remarks came during a press conference addressing ongoing efforts to restore order and adherence to the master plan of Abuja, the carefully designed capital city that has, over the years, faced challenges of urban sprawl, illegal constructions, and unpaid dues by property owners. The minister, known for his fiery rhetoric and decisive actions, made it clear that he relishes the opportunity to confront those who believe their wealth or influence places them above the law. “I take joy when stepping on the toes of big men, those who say nothing will happen. I take joy in saying something will happen,” Wike declared, his voice resonating with defiance.
This statement is more than just a catchy soundbite; it encapsulates Wike’s governing philosophy. Since assuming the role of FCT Minister, the former Rivers State governor has made it his mission to tackle long-standing issues in Abuja, from unpaid ground rents to unauthorized developments. His approach has been marked by swift, often controversial decisions that prioritize results over appeasing the elite. For Wike, the joy of “stepping on toes” lies in proving that no one is untouchable when it comes to upholding the law and restoring the capital’s intended grandeur.
Targeting the Elite: The Maitama Plot Revocation
A key example of Wike’s bold approach is the recent revocation of 762 plots in Abuja’s prestigious Maitama 1 District. The decision, announced earlier this year, targeted property owners who had failed to pay for their Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O), a critical document required for legal ownership of land in the FCT. These plots, located in one of Abuja’s most affluent neighborhoods, are owned by some of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most influential individuals, including politicians, business tycoons, and high-ranking officials. The revocation sent a clear message: no one, regardless of status, is exempt from accountability.
Wike’s administration has made it a priority to address the issue of ground rent defaults, which have long plagued the FCT’s revenue collection efforts. Ground rent, a mandatory annual payment by property owners, is a significant source of income for the FCT Administration, funding infrastructure and urban development projects. However, years of lax enforcement have allowed many “big men” to evade these payments, contributing to the distortion of Abuja’s master plan and straining the city’s resources.
The minister’s decision to revoke these plots was not without controversy. Critics argue that the move could destabilize the real estate market in Abuja or unfairly target certain individuals. However, Wike has remained steadfast, insisting that the revocations are necessary to restore fiscal discipline and ensure that the FCT operates as a model city. “If you like, be a big man or a small man, the law is the law,” he stated during the briefing, emphasizing that his actions are driven by a commitment to fairness and equity.
Restoring Abuja’s Master Plan
At the heart of Wike’s agenda is the restoration of Abuja’s master plan, a visionary blueprint designed in the 1970s to create a modern, organized, and functional capital city. Over the decades, however, rapid urbanization, illegal constructions, and lax enforcement have led to significant deviations from this plan. Shanties, unauthorized buildings, and encroachments on public land have marred the city’s aesthetic and strained its infrastructure.
Wike has taken a hardline stance against these violations, vowing to demolish illegal structures and reclaim public spaces. His administration has already begun targeting areas where the master plan has been distorted, including unauthorized developments in high-end districts and informal settlements in peripheral areas. These efforts have sparked mixed reactions, with some praising Wike’s resolve to restore order and others criticizing the demolitions as harsh or disruptive to livelihoods.
During the press briefing, Wike addressed these concerns head-on, arguing that tough decisions are necessary to preserve Abuja’s status as a world-class capital. “Abuja is not just any city; it is the face of Nigeria,” he said. “We cannot allow it to become a slum because some people think they are too big to follow the rules.” His words resonate with those who see his actions as a necessary corrective to years of mismanagement, but they also highlight the delicate balance between enforcing regulations and addressing the needs of ordinary residents.
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