The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the University of Abuja has issued a stern warning regarding the allocation of university land by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. The union is demanding an immediate reversal of what they describe as an unlawful allocation, threatening to withdraw industrial harmony if their demands are not met.

During a press conference held on Tuesday in Abuja, ASUU Chairperson, Prof. Sylvanus Ugoh, called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure that the minister respects the legal boundaries concerning the university's land. The conference was titled "Ministerial Encroachment into University of Abuja Land: Some Points to Ponder," highlighting the union's concerns over the minister's actions.

Prof. Ugoh criticized the FCT Minister for his alleged disregard for a court order issued on August 18 by Justice F.E. Mesiri of the Maitama High Court. The injunction explicitly restrained Wike from encroaching on the university's land. Despite this order, the minister reportedly allocated portions of the land to various companies and individuals on September 26.

"The act of the FCT Minister is an outright breach and total disregard for the rule of law," Ugoh stated, emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal protocols regarding land ownership and allocation.

The controversy began when Wike announced on June 30, 2025, that he had retrieved 7,000 hectares from the original 11,824 hectares allocated to the university. He accused the institution of land grabbing and unauthorized fencing of land. However, Ugoh countered these claims, asserting that the university was established on January 1, 1988, with a clear allocation of land for its long-term academic and infrastructural needs.

The ASUU leader explained that the vast land is essential for the university's growth, allowing for future expansion, research activities, and the establishment of facilities that contribute to national development. He pointed out that other universities in Nigeria, such as the University of Ilorin and Obafemi Awolowo University, occupy even larger land areas, underscoring that the University of Abuja's allocation is not excessive.

Ugoh also highlighted the ecological importance of the land, noting that it includes green areas vital for environmental conservation and climate change mitigation. He reiterated that the university's development, while gradual, remains the responsibility of the Federal Government, and urged the minister to respect the institution's land rights.

The press conference followed an emergency congress held by ASUU on November 3, where members discussed the ongoing land dispute. The union has vowed to resist any unlawful attempts by the minister to seize the university's land, reaffirming their commitment to protect the institution's interests within the framework of the law.