In a viral video that has sparked widespread discussion, Pastor Sarah Omakwu of Family Worship Centre, Abuja, was seen kneeling and appealing to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to preserve the Jabi Lake Recreation Centre as a public space. The video was shared on her Instagram page on Sunday.
Pastor's Emotional Plea
Omakwu, speaking from the pulpit, directly addressed the minister, urging him not to convert the popular recreational area for private use. "I cannot fight the minister of the FCT. I cannot. But I go on my knees as a mother in this land that Jabi Lake Recreation Centre should not be given to anybody," she said, her voice trembling with emotion.
The cleric highlighted the significance of Jabi Lake as a vital hub for exercise, social interaction, and leisure. "That is where people go for exercise. That is where people sell. That is where people meet and hobnob and get married. That is where people go to watch games. That is where young people go to," she added, emphasizing the communal value of the space.
She further appealed for the space to remain open to the public, insisting that she had no capacity to oppose the minister but was pleading on moral grounds. "I can't fight you. But I can beg you in the name of God Almighty that that land be left for everybody. I beg you. Please heed our call," she stated.
Acknowledgment of Development Efforts
Despite her concerns, Omakwu commended ongoing infrastructural projects within the capital, praising improvements in road networks and accessibility. "I want to thank you for all the highways you have built around the city. I thank you. You have made my journey to my home a whole lot easier. Thank you for the other things you are doing. But for this piece of land, I beg you, let it go," she said.
Background to Jabi Lake Development Plan
Her appeal comes months after the Federal Capital Territory Administration entered into agreements with private firms for the redevelopment of the Jabi Lake recreational area into a modern tourism and leisure hub. In February, the FCTA, under Wike, signed a partnership with Suburban Broadband Limited and Akida Hills Limited to upgrade the facility as part of efforts to boost tourism and economic activity in Abuja.
Authorities have maintained that the initiative is aimed at repositioning the capital as a more attractive destination for recreation and investment. However, many residents have expressed fears that the redevelopment could limit public access to the lake, which has long served as a gathering place for families, joggers, and small business owners.
Public Reaction
The video has gone viral, drawing mixed reactions from Nigerians. Some praised the pastor for her courage and motherly appeal, while others criticized the minister for allegedly prioritizing private interests over public welfare. The debate continues as the FCTA moves forward with its plans.
