Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has issued a stern warning to anyone attempting to undermine his administration’s efforts to reform the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja.
Speaking during a Saturday inspection visit to the facility, Wike declared his unwavering commitment to transforming the FCT despite potential opposition. The minister made it clear that intimidation tactics and blackmail would not deter him from his duties.
“We will not allow anybody to take what belongs to the federal government,” Wike stated emphatically. “No amount of blackmail will change me. If anyone moves to sabotage me, I will take you out.”
The golf club has been at the center of controversy, with structural reform disputes leading to its indefinite closure. Wike addressed concerns about management control, emphasizing that the federal government retains ownership of the facility.
“Government is not a good manager, hence why we appointed the interim management committee,” the minister explained. “You can’t take over the club because we appointed you to manage the club.”
Wike outlined his plans to restore the golf club to its former prominence, promising renovations to the clubhouse. However, he attached conditions to this commitment, demanding that the institution fulfill its financial obligations to the government.
The minister issued an ultimatum regarding ground rent payments, warning of severe consequences for non-compliance. “We want to renovate the clubhouse, but you must pay the ground rent,” he said, threatening to seal the facility if payments are not made.
This development comes as part of Wike’s broader initiative to reclaim and revitalize federal government properties within the FCT, signaling his administration’s zero-tolerance approach to what he perceives as attempts to appropriate public assets.
