When news broke that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) had published a list of 9,532 alleged land title defaulters, including heavyweights like former Nigerian Head of State Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), it did not take long for discussions to circle around the interplay of power, influence, and the game of land politics in Nigeria. The inclusion of IBB, one of Nigeria’s most astute political figures, in a list of debtors owing ₦152 million for a plot in Asokoro, sent shockwaves through the political corridors of Abuja, raising one intriguing question: “Shey Wike think say e go fit dribble Maradona?”

This line of inquiry, coming from a colleague in the office, plays on a larger political conversation, whether Barrister Nyesom Wike, former Governor of Rivers State, and currently the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), known for his political sharpness, could truly outmaneuver IBB, who, in his heyday, earned the moniker “Maradona” for his political sagacity. IBB’s deft maneuvers on the political field were legendary, and as the news of his alleged debt circulated, it was easy to see how the dynamics of power and influence in Nigeria’s political landscape could be at play in this seemingly mundane land dispute.

Ibrahim Babangida, Nigeria’s military ruler from 1985 to 1993, is no stranger to political intrigue. His tenure, marked by both controversy and skillful maneuvering, set the stage for him to be a political kingmaker long after his time in office. Known for his ability to play rival factions against each other, IBB’s name has remained synonymous with political power broking in Nigeria. It is not an overstatement to suggest that IBB’s influence still looms large, especially in the corridors of power where alliances and rivalries are constantly shifting.

So, when the FCTA named IBB among the defaulters for a ₦152 million debt on land in Asokoro, the first thought might be: Is this an attempt to bring down a figure as influential as Maradona? The FCTA’s move to expose such a prominent figure is unusual, considering the history of political protection and patronage that surrounds Nigeria’s elite. Land, particularly in Abuja, is not just a matter of real estate; it is a symbol of power, status, and influence.

What makes this more interesting is the timing. Governor Wike, a man known for his combative political style and ability to challenge the status quo, has been rising in political prominence. His recent activities, especially his push for reforms and changes in political alignments, seem to coincide with this new wave of land titling scrutiny. Could this be a subtle way for Wike to assert his dominance over Nigeria’s power structures? Could he be trying to check Maradona’s seemingly untouchable status, leveraging this land debt to his advantage?

Governor Nyesom Wike is a seasoned political player, particularly in the volatile world of Nigerian state politics. His reputation for being direct, tough, and unyielding in his approach has earned him both admirers and enemies. Wike’s penchant for challenging entrenched political interests has made him a figure to watch, especially as he moves into the national political stage with an eye on greater influence.

The ongoing tussle between Wike and some political elites has been brewing for some time. Wike’s influence is undeniable, particularly in the Niger Delta region, but his recent moves show a man eager to expand his national reach. His confrontations with federal government policies, his vocal support for opposition parties, and his strategic positioning in the aftermath of the 2023 elections all point to his desire to reshape the political order. In that light, the question of whether Wike could “dribble” IBB, who is, after all, the man who has maneuvered around Nigeria’s political landscape for decades, is both timely and intriguing.

Wike’s confrontational style may suggest that he is testing the waters with his political rivals. The publication of IBB’s alleged land debt could be part of a larger strategy of political positioning, one where Wike seeks to challenge the perceived invincibility of the old guard. By targeting landholders like IBB, Wike might be sending a subtle message that no one is above scrutiny, not even Nigeria’s most seasoned political players.

Land in Nigeria is more than just property, it is a symbol of wealth, power, and influence. The recent naming of top political figures as defaulters by the FCTA signals that land title disputes, especially in the capital, are closely tied to the intricate webs of Nigerian politics. As Abuja has grown into the heart of Nigeria’s political and administrative activities, land ownership in the city has become a marker of one’s proximity to power. A plot of land in Asokoro, for example, is not just real estate; it is literarily a seat at the table of political elites.

For IBB, who once held absolute power in Nigeria, land ownership in Abuja is a status symbol, something that reflects both his past political dominance and ongoing influence. However, the fact that his name appeared on the list of defaulters raises questions. Could it be that there is a larger political maneuver behind it? Perhaps the timing is not coincidental; perhaps it is an attempt to chip away at his legacy and influence.

The question that lingers is whether Wike, with his recent political endeavors, can truly outplay IBB in this game of political chess. IBB’s reputation as a master of realpolitik suggests that any move against him is unlikely to go unnoticed. Maradona’s ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex political terrain is well-documented; his alliances and machinations are often subtle, yet highly effective.

If  Wike indeed sees this as an opportunity to undermine IBB’s influence, it would not be the first time he has taken on formidable political figures. Wike has consistently demonstrated an ability to rally public opinion and apply pressure in ways that force even the most established players to reconsider their strategies. However, challenging IBB is no small feat. The former Head of State is known for his networks, his ability to play the long game, and his capacity to keep his political cards close to his chest.

The fact that prominent figures like IBB are part of the FCTA’s land defaulter list suggests that no one is immune from scrutiny, no matter how powerful. But whether this move will diminish IBB’s stature or simply fuel his political survival instincts remains to be seen.

The unfolding land title dispute in the Federal Capital Territory is more than just a case of defaulters and overdue payments. It is a reflection of the larger struggle for power in Nigerian politics. Wike, known for his combative and strategic nature, may very well be attempting to make a move against one of Nigeria’s most skilled powerbrokers. However, IBB’s decades of political experience, combined with his vast network, suggest that he will not go down without a fight.

As the FCTA’s ultimatum looms, the game of political maneuvering continues, and the outcome remains uncertain. One thing is clear: in Nigerian politics, nothing is as it seems, and every move is part of a larger chess game where only the most astute players can survive. Will Wike be able to outmaneuver Maradona? Time will tell. But in Nigerian politics, as in the world of football, anything is possible.