The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reassured property owners in the FCT that his administration is not focused on seizing lands from ground rent debtors but rather ensuring that allottees pay their dues to facilitate the development of the territory.
Wike made the statement after inspecting various ongoing projects in the FCT, including the 10-lane 15-kilometre Apo-Wasa Road, the Court of Appeal Complex in Jabi District, and the Saburi-Dei Dei Road on Tuesday.
While discussing the possibility of extending the deadline for ground rent payments beyond January 3, 2025, the Minister indicated that no further grace periods would be granted, emphasising that property tax is the primary source of revenue for the territory’s development.
“Regarding whether there will be another grace period, I don’t think that will happen. As I have consistently stated, Nigerians are often slow to comply. These allocations were made over 10 years ago, and Abuja’s primary source of revenue for development is property tax,” Wike said.
The Minister explained, “Our focus is not on repossessing lands but ensuring that taxes are paid so we can use the funds for the territory’s development. We cannot build roads without proper compliance from property owners.”
Wike added that those who could prove payment would not be affected by the deadline, reaffirming that the Right of Occupancy document indicates an allocation, but not payment, of land.
He further commented on the criticisms of his actions, saying, “Nothing distracts me. I am focused on the job. Complaints are part of the process, but we will continue with our work without being diverted by them.”
