The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong warning to property owners in Abuja’s elite neighbourhoods over their failure to pay ground rent.
Areas affected include Asokoro, Maitama, Wuse 2, Guzape, and the Central Business District. Wike stressed that these are not low-income communities and criticised residents for neglecting their obligations despite their wealth.
He expressed frustration at how many Nigerians pay property taxes abroad but fail to do the same within their own country.
To enforce compliance, the FCT Administration has begun sealing off properties whose owners have defaulted on ground rent payments.
Speaking at his monthly ministerial press briefing, Wike questioned why wealthy individuals would expect reminders before renewing payments tied to their Certificates of Occupancy.
He emphasised that annual payments are a legal requirement and that ownership comes with responsibility.
According to him, the argument that some owners cannot afford the charges is baseless.
He pointed out that no one in these upscale areas pays as little as ₦400,000 annually in ground rent, suggesting that those who default simply choose to ignore their duty.
Wike maintained that this is not an issue of affordability but one of attitude and accountability.
He reaffirmed the FCTA’s commitment to enforcing the law and ensuring that property owners contribute to the capital city’s development through regular and timely payments of the ground rent.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
