Wike takes tough stance on unpaid ground rent, revokes 4,794 land titles

To address the ongoing issue of unpaid Ground Rent, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has taken decisive action.

Specifically, he has revoked 4,794 land titles as part of his strategy to enforce compliance.

Moreover, these properties are located in Abuja’s major districts, including Garki, Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, and Guzape.

Notably, many have remained in default for over a decade, underscoring the severity of the problem.

This bold decision follows years of appeals and warnings issued to property owners urging them to settle their debts.

Consequently, officials report that a staggering 8,375 property owners across these districts have failed to pay their Ground Rent for an astonishing 43 years.

During a press briefing, Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, made the announcement.

Additionally, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, the Director of Lands at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), participated in the event.

The FCTA has contacted defaulters through newspapers and broadcasts since 2023. Nevertheless, responses remain inadequate despite persistent outreach.

Consequently, they continue to seek more effective strategies to engage these individuals.

“Ground rent is more than just a fee; rather, it represents a legal obligation linked to the Right of Occupancy,” Olayinka explained.

“Moreover, this payment is due each January 1st, so property owners must pay it without needing reminders.”

To address the issue effectively, the FCTA compiled a comprehensive list of properties that have defaulted in Abuja’s oldest districts.

Moreover, they focused specifically on the ten oldest areas within the Phase 1 development to ensure targeted action.

These include the Central Area District, Garki I and II, Wuse I and II, Asokoro, Maitama, and Guzape.

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