Rivers: Gov Fubara Reverses Land Revocation Done by Predecessor Wike

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reinstated the ownership rights of a property at Plot 319, GRA Phase II, Port Harcourt, which had been revoked by his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. The property, home to Ogeyi Place Hotels Limited, was originally allocated to former military governor Anthony Ukpo in 1998, covering 2864.64 square meters.

In 2001, Ukpo assigned his interests in the property to Ogeyi Place Hotels Limited through a Deed of Assignment. However, in December 2022, then-Governor Wike revoked the statutory Right of Occupancy, citing public interest.

Governor Fubara, invoking powers under section 28 (5) (a) (b) of the Land Use Act, has now cancelled Wike’s revocation, reinstating Ogeyi Place Hotels Limited’s rights to the property. Fubara emphasized the importance of legal due process in property rights, stating, “This reinstatement ensures justice and fairness.”

The reinstatement allows Ogeyi Place Hotels Limited to proceed with its plans for the property, marking a significant moment in the legal and administrative landscape of Rivers State.

In December 2022, an unconfirmed letter from Wike’s administration alleged the revocation was due to default on ground rent payment. Opunabo Inko Taria, former media adviser to Wike, criticized the action, suggesting it was a punitive measure for hosting a meeting of Atiku Abubakar’s supporters.