Nyesom Wike, the FCT (Federal Capital Territory) minister, has issued a stern warning to Abuja landlords who are defaulting on their ground rent payments.
He emphasized that the Rights of Occupancy for these properties may be revoked if they fail to meet their payment obligations. The warning comes after a September deadline issued by the FCT Administration for those owing ground rent to settle their payments.
Speaking during a visit by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by its President, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, Wike clarified that “something will surely happen” when the FCT Administration’s deadline expires. He stressed the need for compliance with the terms and conditions of the Rights of Occupancy and warned that the law would be applied, potentially resulting in the revocation of titles for defaulters.
The FCTA had previously published an advisory asking land allottees and property owners in Abuja to fulfill their ground rent obligations as stipulated in their Certificate of Occupancy (C of O). Non-compliance may lead to the revocation of titles, and the minister reiterated his determination to take action against defaulters.
Wike also highlighted the FCTA’s ability to increase Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) following its removal from the Treasury Single Account. He stated that the era of abandoned projects in the FCT was over and pledged continued support for the media as development partners.
