Garba Shehu, a former aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has refuted reports suggesting that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) seized land allegedly belonging to the former leader.
In a statement issued on Thursday via Buhari’s official X handle, Shehu clarified the situation, stating that Buhari is not the direct owner of the disputed plot.
According to Shehu, the plot in question was allocated to the “Muhammadu Buhari Foundation,” an organization established by well-meaning individuals close to the former president. However, the Foundation reportedly faced challenges with the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) over an exorbitant bill for the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O).
“The bill presented to the Foundation was unusually high compared to similar organizations, raising suspicions of either a deliberate mistake or an error on the part of the FCDA,” Shehu explained. He added that the subsequent revocation of the land came as no surprise under the circumstances.
Shehu also addressed misconceptions about Buhari’s personal land ownership in Abuja. He revealed that during Buhari’s tenure, when government officials were invited to apply for land, the former president declined the offer. “He returned the form without filling it, stating that he already owned a plot in the FCT and that the land should be given to those without one,” Shehu said.
Shehu concluded by urging the public and social media commentators to verify facts before making claims that could tarnish Buhari’s reputation. “Let all those jumping up and down in the digital space get their facts right and stop dragging down the name of the former president,” the statement read.
https://x.com/MBuhari/status/1869824307205156979?t=xUi7j_XiK9p-7tetD4cEgA&s=19
This clarification comes amid widespread discussions over the FCTA’s recent revocation of several plots of land, including some linked to high-profile individuals and organizations.
