Tension is mounting in the Federal Capital Territory as residents of Abuja prepare for a major protest against the alleged takeover of Jabi Lake Park by the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, with demonstrators vowing to resist what they describe as the destruction and commercialisation of one of the cityâs most valued public recreational spaces.
The protest, tagged #SaveJabiLakePark, is scheduled to hold on Saturday, May 24, 2026, and is expected to attract hundreds of residents, civil society groups, environmental advocates, fitness enthusiasts, and regular users of the park.
Organisers of the protest have already mounted a giant banner at the facility, demanding that the Minister and developers allegedly linked to the controversial land allocation immediately vacate the park or face sustained mass action.
Speaking during an interaction with journalists at the park on Wednesday, activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, said the planned protest became necessary following the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum earlier issued to the FCT administration.
According to Sowore, residents are angry over what they described as an arbitrary and forceful attempt to convert part of the public recreational facility into a private development project despite widespread opposition from Abuja residents.
He alleged that construction activities around the park intensified shortly after a warning protest held at the location last week, insisting that citizens would not remain silent while public green spaces are allegedly being taken over for private interests.
Sowore further claimed that individuals who approached his movement identified themselves as original owners of the land, alleging that the property was first allocated during the regime of late military Head of State, Sani Abacha.
According to him, the land was later reallocated during the administration of former FCT Minister, Nasir El-Rufai, before eventually being transformed into a recreational park in 2003.
He disclosed that ownership disputes surrounding the property reportedly lingered in court for years before authorities allegedly encouraged renewed development on the land.
Sowore also alleged that while the 14-hectare park was eventually returned to the original claimants, the current FCT administration allegedly took over three hectares of the property.
âThe park now serves public interest and has become a recreational and environmental asset for Abuja residents. If compensation is necessary, alternative land can be provided elsewhere,â he stated.
The activist warned against what he called the aggressive commercialisation of public spaces within Abuja, stressing that green areas and recreational parks remain essential for environmental sustainability, mental wellness, and community interaction.
He called on Nigerians, particularly lawyers, medical workers, retirees, youths, and fitness groups who regularly use the park, to participate in the protest and defend what he described as a public heritage belonging to all residents.
âWe are determined to reclaim the land, especially the portion allegedly taken over. Nigerians who value public parks and green spaces must come out and defend this place,â Sowore declared.
The protest is expected to further intensify conversations around urban development, environmental preservation, and the growing concerns over the shrinking number of open recreational spaces across Abuja.