‎The recent move by Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to revoke the land of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) national secretariat in Abuja has sparked intense debate and outrage among Nigerians. The revocation notice, dated March 13, 2025, cites the PDP’s failure to pay annual ground rents for 20 years, from January 1, 2006, to January 1, 2025, as the reason for the action.
‎Many Nigerians have taken to social media platforms like Facebook, (link unavailable), and Twitter to express their solidarity with the PDP and condemn Wike’s decision. Some have questioned the timing and motives behind the revocation, with many seeing it as a politically motivated move to weaken the opposition party.
‎Reactions from Nigerians
‎ “This is a clear case of political witch-hunting. Wike should focus on governance rather than trying to silence the opposition,” said a Facebook user.
‎ “The PDP had 20 years to pay their ground rents, but they chose to ignore the law. Wike is right to revoke their land title,” countered a Twitter user.
‎ “This is a democracy, and the opposition has the right to exist and operate freely. Wike’s action is a threat to our democracy,” said a commentator.
‎Influential Voices
‎Influential figures like Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar have also weighed in on the issue, with Obi describing Wike’s action as “an attempt to stifle the opposition and undermine our democracy”.
‎The Way Forward
‎While the PDP’s failure to pay ground rents for 20 years is inexcusable, Wike’s decision to revoke their land title raises concerns about the use of power to silence the opposition. The government should ensure that its actions are fair, transparent, and in line with the rule of law. The PDP should also take responsibility for their actions and pay the outstanding ground rents to resolve the issue amicably.
‎Ultimately, this development highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in governance, as well as the importance of respecting the rights of opposition parties in a democratic society.
