By Adenike Lawal
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that residents of Abuja’s elite districts such as Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse 2, Guzape, and the Central Business District have no excuse for failing to pay ground rent on their properties.
Speaking during his monthly media briefing on Monday in Abuja, Wike said it was dishonest for affluent property owners to claim financial hardship as a reason for defaulting on statutory land charges, especially while living in some of the most expensive parts of the city.
“Let’s stop pretending,” the minister said. “Poor people don’t live in Maitama or Asokoro. So when someone living in these areas says they can’t afford ground rent, it’s simply not credible.”
He accused many of Nigeria’s elites of double standards, noting that while they promptly pay property taxes abroad, they often neglect their obligations in Nigeria.
“They have homes in London, Dubai, or the U.S., and they pay taxes there without complaints. But here, they behave as if nothing will happen even if they default,” Wike stated.
He also criticized the entitlement mentality among some property owners who expect reminders before paying their dues. “You hold a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), which means you’re fully aware of your responsibilities. In what country do you own luxury property and expect to be begged to pay what is legally due?”
Wike emphasized that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), will continue sealing properties of defaulters.
He said enforcement operations, which temporarily paused due to the recent 19-day project commissioning exercise, would resume immediately.
“Once we’re done with the commissioning phase, enforcement continues. Anyone who defaults on ground rent should be prepared. There will be no exceptions,” he warned.
The minister’s remarks underscore a renewed effort by the FCTA to improve revenue generation and ensure that property owners, particularly in upscale neighborhoods fulfill their civic obligations.
“Affluence comes with responsibility,” Wike said. “If we must build and maintain a world-class capital, then everyone must do their part.”
