Former presidential spokesperson, Garba Shehu, has refuted reports suggesting that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) revoked a plot of land belonging to former President Muhammadu Buhari.
Shehu clarified on Wednesday that the land was lawfully acquired for the Muhammadu Buhari Foundation by associates of the former leader and not owned by Buhari personally.
He explained that the land was allocated to the Foundation, established by Buhari’s supporters and associates, with full legal backing.
Shehu revealed that the Foundation faced challenges with the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) over what was described as an exorbitant certificate of occupancy fee.
He claimed the fee was unusually high compared to what similar organisations were charged.
While the reasons for the FCTA’s revocation remain unclear, Shehu suggested it might be an administrative error or an intentional act.
Shehu also disclosed that Buhari already owns a personal plot in Abuja, allocated before his presidency. During his tenure, Buhari had declined an additional land offer, urging that the allocation should go to those without plots.
He urged critics to verify facts before making accusations, stressing the need to separate Buhari’s personal affairs from those of the Foundation.
He cautioned against dragging the former president into unnecessary controversies.