AVOID DIPLOMATIC PROBLEMS: Falana Warns Wike Against Sealing Embassies Over Ground Rent

Prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has issued a stern warning to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, cautioning him against the looming diplomatic crisis over plans to seal off embassies and international organizations in Abuja for failing to pay ground rent.

Falana described the move as “a recipe for international embarrassment,” urging the FCT Administration to tread with caution and uphold the principles of diplomacy.

“Embassies are protected under international law. Threatening to seal them over land charges violates the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations,” Falana emphasized.

The FCT Minister had recently directed that defaulting embassies and high commissions be sanctioned over unpaid ground rents, sparking widespread concern among foreign missions.

Falana advised Wike to explore diplomatic channels and engage the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before taking any drastic action.

“Such aggressive measures may prompt reciprocal actions from affected countries, which could hurt Nigerians living abroad,” he added.

With tension simmering, analysts warn that mishandling the matter could strain Nigeria’s foreign relations at a time when the country seeks more international cooperation and investment.

As Abuja watches closely, the question remains: Will diplomacy prevail over enforcement?

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