From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
The University of Abuja Alumni Association has kicked against the proposed revocation of a large portion of land allocated to the institution and called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to reverse the decision.
The group said it was deeply concerned about the move to cut the university’s land from over 11,000 hectares to 4,000 hectares, describing it as unlawful and arbitrary.
In a letter jointly signed by the President, Habeeb Abdulkadir, and General Secretary, Abdullahi Dangana, the association appealed to the FCT Minister to embrace constructive dialogue instead of forceful revocation.
The land, they said, was allocated in 1988 under the military administration of President Ibrahim Babangida to support the development of a full-fledged academic and research institution in the Federal Capital Territory.
They explained that the land was earmarked to accommodate various projects, including a main campus with facilities for both conventional and distance learning, agricultural and scientific research zones, as well as recreational and community service areas.
The alumni said the land holds strategic value for future expansion of the university, increasing research capacity, and growing student and staff populations.
They noted that the allocation is backed by valid legal documents and protected by the Land Use Act, adding that any attempt to revoke it without due process and compensation would be a breach of existing laws.
They also emphasised the national importance of the university as a centre for unity and learning in Nigeria’s capital, warning against treating it like regular land misuse cases.
While expressing readiness to work with the FCTA to ensure proper development of the land, the group warned that it would not hesitate to take legal action, stage peaceful protests, and petition both the Presidency and international organisations if the decision is not reversed.
They maintained that the land should be preserved for the benefit of future generations and the overall advancement of the country’s education sector.
“The proposed revocation of two thirds of this portion at this time profoundly undermines the strategic future of the university, especially as it strives to expand its research capacity, accommodate an increasing student population and inherent Staff increase, and fulfil its dual mode (conventional and distance learning) mandate.
“Any attempt to reduce this allocation without due process, adequate compensation, and demonstrable and bona fide overriding public interest, distinct from general land management objectives, would constitute a violation of established land tenure laws and principles of natural justice.
“The land is not a mere territory. It represents hope, unity, and development for past and future generations.
“We remain open to dialogue but are fully prepared to escalate this matter if treated with contempt,” the letter read in parts.
The post UniAbuja alumni protest land revocation, urge Wike to reverse decision appeared first on The Sun Nigeria.
