FCT Minister Wike Vows To Raise Ground Rents Despite Opposition.
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has announced plans to increase ground rents in Abuja, asserting that his administration will not be deterred by what he describes as “blackmail” from property owners. Speaking to journalists on Wednesday during an inspection of infrastructure projects, Wike highlighted the persistent issue of unpaid ground rents as a significant challenge to the FCT’s development.
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) recently revoked 4,794 land titles in districts such as Wuse, Maitama, Asokoro, and Garki due to non-payment of ground rents, some dating back over 40 years. The FCTA estimates that 8,375 property owners collectively owe approximately ₦6.97 billion. High-profile properties, including the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) office in Zone 5, were sealed as part of the enforcement drive that began on Monday.
Wike, undeterred by criticism, stated, “We have not increased the ground rent, but we are working towards that, and I can assure you we will do so. The President has granted a two-week waiver. Let nobody think that blackmail or intimidation will stop us; we will do what is necessary.” He emphasised that the FCT relies heavily on taxes for funding, unlike oil-producing states, and urged residents to meet their obligations to support infrastructure development. “If you pay your taxes, you will see the difference it makes,” he added.
The enforcement actions have sparked controversy, with the PDP and FIRS criticising the FCTA’s approach as unprofessional. FIRS claimed it had paid ground rent up to 2023 and demanded an apology for the closure of its office. Meanwhile, PDP chieftain Bode George suggested Wike, a party member, should have covered the party’s ₦7 million debt as a gesture of loyalty.
President Bola Tinubu intervened, issuing a 14-day ultimatum for defaulters to settle their debts, with penalties ranging from ₦2 million to ₦3 million depending on location. Wike, however, remained resolute, stating, “Look at the arrears – 20, 30 years. And how much is it? We will not give in to blackmail. We will do the right thing.”
As Abuja prepares to mark President Tinubu’s second anniversary in office, Wike outlined plans to commission several infrastructure projects within the next 19 days, underscoring the importance of tax compliance to sustain such developments. The minister’s firm stance signals a continued push for fiscal responsibility in the FCT, despite resistance from some quarters.
