By Esther Ososanya
Acting Vice Chancellor of Yakubu Gowon University (formerly University of Abuja), Prof. Lar Patricia Manko, has rejected claims by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike that the university illegally seized 11,000 hectares of land.
She clarified that the land was legitimately allocated by the federal government and is critical to the institution’s long-term growth.
“The land was given to us for academic, agricultural, and infrastructural development,” she told journalists in Abuja. “University land can never be too much.”
Wike Accuses School of “Grabbing Land”
Recall On June 30, during the launch of the Giri access road, Wike alleged that the university had fenced off thousands of hectares without formal documents and was preparing to sell them.
“No documents, nothing. Just fencing everywhere,” Wike said. “We’ve decided to reclaim 4,000 hectares and give the rest to the university under strict supervision.”
Development Plans Underway, Says VC
Prof. Manko explained that the university has clear, documented plans for the land, including agriculture, tourism, research centres, and permanent housing for staff and students.
She added that the school had already signed multiple MoUs with investors to develop key projects.
“Right now, our staff quarters sit on temporary plots donated by the military,” she noted. “This land allows us to build permanent, modern infrastructure.”
ALSO READ: Wike Reclaims 7,000 Hectares from UniAbuja’s Alleged Land Grab
Private Partnerships in Progress
To overcome funding limitations, the university is working with private partners. Manko said the partnerships aim to transform the land into a vibrant academic and residential zone.
“We’re not misusing the land. We’re building for the future sustainably and transparently,” she concluded.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.