By Tosin Kolade
Accountability Lab Nigeria has called for an institutional review of land administration and public asset management in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) following reports concerning the redevelopment and alleged conversion of land around Jabi Lake.
The organisation made the call in letters dated May 5 and addressed to the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Minister of Environment, and the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.
Copies of the letters were also sent to the Freedom of Information (FOI) Desk at the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Accountability Lab said the request was prompted by concerns arising from reports in the public domain about developments around Jabi Lake, including the redevelopment of Jabi Lake Park and alleged conversion of designated public-use land.
It said that the reports raised questions around transparency, due process, statutory compliance and the availability of procurement and planning records related to developments around the lake, including concerns over delayed responses to Freedom of Information requests.
“These concerns are based on publicly available information and stakeholder reports, and we seek institutional clarification to ensure alignment with applicable laws,” the organisation stated.
According to the group, the issues present potential risks relating to procurement integrity, legal compliance, environmental safeguards and public trust in governance systems.
It urged the relevant authorities to undertake a preliminary review of land allocation and public asset management processes in the FCT, particularly in cases where public-use land had been reassigned.
The organisation also requested verification of compliance with the Public Procurement Act in instances involving private sector participation in public asset development.
It further called for an assessment of compliance with the Freedom of Information Act, including response timelines and disclosure practices.
Accountability Lab also sought a review of adherence to urban planning and environmental standards in relation to land-use changes.
The organisation said a transparent institutional review would help strengthen public confidence in land governance, reinforce compliance with procurement and environmental standards, and clarify accountability in the management of public assets in the FCT.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Country Director of Accountability Lab Nigeria, Mr Friday Odeh, said recent public reactions to developments around Jabi Lake reflected growing concerns about governance, accountability and citizens’ access to public spaces.
He referenced remarks made by Pastor Sarah Omakwu of Family Worship Centre, Abuja, during service, where she appealed emotionally for the preservation of the recreational space around Jabi Lake.
According to Odeh, the cleric described the lake area as a place where residents exercise, socialise, conduct small businesses and hold community activities, while also acknowledging infrastructural improvements in the city.
Odeh said the concerns expressed by citizens underscored the need for public officials to uphold transparency, due process and the rule of law in decisions affecting public assets and urban development.
Also speaking on the development, Mr Bola Adeosun, who operates a table tennis business at Jabi Lake Park, alleged that traders and small business operators were not formally notified before the demolition exercise began.
“When the demolitions started, we were not served a quit notice. I found out from a customer who heard it on the radio.
“Without any option, I picked up and moved to the next available spot inside the park, staying just ahead of the bulldozers as they advanced,” he said.
Adeosun said he paid annual dues to operate within the park and expressed concern over the impact of the redevelopment on small businesses and livelihoods in the area.
A public procurement expert, Mr Kachi Chukwu, also expressed concern over the reduction of open public spaces in Abuja and called for greater transparency in the redevelopment process.
“Abuja is losing open spaces. Places like Jabi Lake should not be sold or converted. Open public spaces are important because citizens need somewhere to exist without paying for access.
“I am not against development, but it must come with transparency. People have a right to know what process was followed and why it feels like public spaces can suddenly become private projects without open contracting.
“If land meant for all of us can change hands, what exactly protects the public interest?” he asked.
Meanwhile, the FCT Administration had maintained that the redevelopment project was aimed at transforming Jabi Lake into a modern recreational and tourism hub.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had said the administration revoked land titles previously allocated around the lake after many years of alleged underutilisation and non-development by former allottees.
According to the minister, the areas around the lake will be redesigned to meet international standards, with facilities comparable to major global tourist destinations.
The administration also stated that new investors allocated portions of the land would be required to develop the sites within specified timelines or risk revocation.
However, the redevelopment plan has continued to generate debate among residents and stakeholders, with some calling for greater transparency in the reallocation process and the preservation of public access to recreational spaces around the lake.
NAN also reports that Accountability Lab is a global translocal network and incubator for civic ideas, founded in 2012 to make governance work for people by supporting active citizens, responsible leaders, and accountable institutions.
It focuses on fighting corruption, promoting integrity, and building, “unlikely networks” for social change through training and campaigns. (NAN)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru
