“Ex-Navy Chief Gambo Scammed in Abuja Land Deal, Says Wike’s Aide”

VOP NG reports that Lere Olayinka, media aide to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has claimed that retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (retd.), was misled by a company that sold him a piece of land in Abuja meant for public park and recreation.

Speaking on Channels TV on Wednesday, Olayinka explained the background of the controversial land dispute and insisted that the retired naval chief has no legal ownership of the property.

“The former Chief of Naval Staff was scammed by the company that sold the land to him. The land is designated for park and recreation. Instead of seeking help through proper channels, he attempted to use military influence. He doesn’t have a title document proving ownership,” Olayinka said.

Olayinka detailed how the property, originally allocated in 2007 to Santos Estate Limited for public park and recreation under the Abuja Master Plan, was sold despite restrictions on construction.

“The company never developed the land because it is part of a parkway and road corridor. In 2022, they requested approval from the FCTA to convert it for commercial use. Anticipating approval, the company partitioned and sold the land to buyers, including Vice Admiral Gambo. That is why I say he was duped,” Olayinka explained.

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The aide alleged that instead of pursuing legal recourse, Gambo resorted to leveraging his military influence to assert control over the property. He stressed that the land’s public designation remains unchanged and that no residential development is legally allowed.

“Even after being sold land meant for park and recreation, who should the Chief of Naval Staff hold accountable—the company or the government? He chose not to challenge the company that sold it,” Olayinka added.
“As of today, Vice Admiral Gambo has no valid title document proving ownership. He does not own the land.”

Olayinka also challenged the retired naval chief to provide evidence of following due process, including securing an approved building plan from the relevant authorities.