In a bold and unwavering declaration, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has reaffirmed his commitment to enforcing laws on ground rents and taxes in Abuja, stating that no amount of blackmail or pressure will deter him from ensuring compliance. The former Rivers State governor, known for his no-nonsense approach to governance, made the statement during a recent address, where he also hinted at a potential increase in ground rent charges in the near future, citing the rising value of land in Nigeria’s capital city. This announcement has sparked widespread discussion, with implications for property owners, businesses, and the broader socio-economic landscape of the FCT.
Wike’s remarks come as part of his broader agenda to streamline revenue collection and ensure that all property owners in the FCT meet their financial obligations to the government. Ground rent, a recurring fee paid by property owners for the use of government-owned land, has long been a contentious issue in Abuja, with many individuals and organizations allegedly defaulting on payments for years. Wike has made it clear that his administration will not tolerate such non-compliance, regardless of the status or influence of the defaulters.
“No one is above the law,” Wike declared, emphasizing that even prominent figures, including religious institutions, embassies, and corporate entities, must settle their outstanding ground rent debts. “We are not here to play games. If you owe, you must pay, or we will take necessary actions as prescribed by law.” His administration has reportedly issued notices to defaulters, with threats of property revocation for those who fail to comply within stipulated deadlines.
The minister’s resolve stems from the need to boost internally generated revenue (IGR) for the FCT, which is critical for funding infrastructure projects, urban development, and public services in Abuja. According to Wike, the non-payment of ground rents has deprived the FCT Administration of significant funds that could have been used to improve the city’s infrastructure and services. He stressed that the enforcement drive is not targeted at any individual or group but is a necessary step to ensure fairness and accountability.
In a move that has raised eyebrows, Wike disclosed that the FCT Administration is considering an upward review of ground rent charges. He attributed this potential increase to the rising value of land in Abuja, which has become one of Nigeria’s most expensive real estate markets. “The value of land in the FCT today is not what it was 10 or 20 years ago,” Wike explained. “We must adjust the charges to reflect current economic realities.”
While the minister did not provide specific details on the proposed increment or a timeline for its implementation, the announcement has already triggered speculation about its potential impact on property owners, particularly those already struggling to meet existing obligations. Real estate experts suggest that an increase in ground rent could significantly raise the cost of property ownership in Abuja, potentially affecting businesses, homeowners, and investors.
Wike’s uncompromising stance and the prospect of higher ground rent charges have elicited mixed reactions from residents, property owners, and stakeholders in the FCT. Supporters of the minister’s position argue that enforcing ground rent payments is long overdue and necessary to ensure equitable contributions to the development of the capital city. “It’s unfair that some people, especially the elite, have been sitting on prime land without paying what they owe,” said Chukwudi Okeke, a civil servant in Abuja. “Wike is doing the right thing by holding everyone accountable.”
However, critics have raised concerns about the timing and potential consequences of the enforcement drive and proposed fee hike. Some argue that the move could exacerbate economic challenges for small businesses and middle-class property owners, who are already grappling with inflation and rising living costs. Others have accused Wike of using the policy as a tool to target political opponents or settle scores, given his reputation for being a polarizing figure in Nigerian politics.
Posts on X reflect the polarized sentiment. One user wrote, “Wike is cleaning up the mess in Abuja. If you own land, pay your dues. Simple!” Another countered, “This ground rent issue is just another way to squeeze the common man while the big shots get away. Wike should tread carefully.” These contrasting views highlight the delicate balance Wike must strike between enforcing compliance and addressing public concerns about affordability.
Wike’s focus on ground rents is part of a broader vision to transform Abuja into a world-class capital city. Since assuming office as FCT Minister, he has prioritized infrastructure development, urban renewal, and revenue generation. His administration has embarked on several high-profile projects, including road rehabilitation, construction of new public facilities, and efforts to address illegal land allocations in the FCT.
The minister has also been vocal about tackling inefficiencies in the FCT’s land administration system, which he claims has been plagued by corruption and mismanagement. By enforcing ground rent payments and potentially increasing charges, Wike aims to create a more sustainable financial framework for the FCT, reducing its dependence on federal allocations.
However, the proposed increase in ground rent charges raises questions about affordability in a city where the cost of living is already high. Real estate analysts warn that higher charges could discourage investment in the FCT’s property market, particularly for small and medium-scale developers. Others argue that the government must provide clear justification for any increase and ensure that the additional revenue is transparently utilized for public benefit.
As the FCT Administration moves forward with its enforcement drive, all eyes will be on how Wike navigates the challenges of implementation. Property owners who have received notices are urged to settle their outstanding debts to avoid penalties, which could include the revocation of land titles. The FCT Administration has promised to make the payment process seamless, with options for installment plans for those facing financial difficulties.
Meanwhile, the potential increase in ground rent charges is likely to spark further debate in the coming months. Stakeholders, including real estate associations and civil society groups, have called for public consultations to ensure that any adjustments are fair and considerate of the economic realities faced by residents.
For now, Wike remains undeterred, standing firm on his commitment to uphold the law and improve the FCT’s financial standing. “Let me make it clear: no amount of blackmail or noise will stop us from doing what is right,” he reiterated. Whether this bold stance will solidify his legacy as a transformative leader or fuel further controversy remains to be seen.
For the latest updates on this developing story, including public reactions and official announcements, stay tuned to our news platform. If you’re a property owner in the FCT, now may be the time to review your ground rent obligations to avoid falling afoul of the law.
Join our Whatsapp channel to stay updated always!
