By Samuel Adeola
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has identified widespread tax evasion and unpaid ground rents as the biggest obstacles hindering infrastructural development in Abuja.
Wike made the disclosure on Wednesday during an inspection tour of completed and ongoing projects across the capital, ahead of events marking President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office.
“Abuja is not an oil-producing region,” the minister emphasized. “Our only source of revenue is taxes. Yet, people want roads, hospitals, and other facilities without contributing their fair share.”
He decried the trend among affluent Nigerians, particularly those who willingly pay taxes abroad, but evade their obligations at home, emboldened by a belief that they can escape consequences.
In recent weeks, the FCT Administration (FCTA), sealed several institutions over tax and rent defaults.
These include the PDP National Secretariat, NAPTIP, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), a branch of Access Bank, and a TotalEnergies fuel station.
Following the clampdown, President Tinubu granted a 14-day grace period for the defaulters to settle their debts and penalties ranging from N2 million to N3 million.
Wike also revealed that some property owners have failed to pay ground rent for up to 20 or 30 years, despite the rates remaining unchanged for decades.
He said a review is underway to revise and increase the rent rates in line with current economic realities.
“I’ve already signed over 1,500 Certificates of Occupancy and Deeds of Assignment. We’re working tirelessly to develop the city, but residents must fulfill their civic obligations,” he stated.
The minister also warned against blackmail and political pressure, declaring that no amount of intimidation from elites will deter the ongoing enforcement efforts.
“Those who don’t pay will face the full weight of the law,” he warned.
On a separate note, Wike addressed circulating rumours about a suicide bombing in the Nyanya area, clarifying that the incident involved a man who unknowingly transported explosives from a quarry site and was killed in the resulting blast.
He urged journalists to verify information before spreading panic-inducing reports.
“Abuja remains one of the safest cities in Nigeria,” Wike reassured, promising that the FCT administration will continue prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of residents.
