FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has authorized the annulment of 4,794 land titles across Abuja’s most prestigious areas, including the Central Area, Garki I and II, Wuse I and II, Asokoro, Maitama, and Guzape. This move targets property owners who have defaulted on ground rent payments for over a decade, with some arrears extending beyond 40 years.
The FCT Administration (FCTA) revealed that a total of 8,375 property owners have neglected their ground rent obligations, collectively owing ₦6,967,980,119 as of the end of 2024. Despite multiple notifications and public announcements since 2023, compliance remained minimal, prompting this stringent measure.
Legal Framework and Enforcement Measures
Nyesom Wike emphasized that the payment of ground rent is mandated by existing legislation and is explicitly stated in the terms and conditions of the Right of Occupancy. Ground rent is due annually on the first day of January, without the need for a demand notice.
The revocation aligns with Section 28, Subsections 5(a) and (b) of the Land Use Act, which permits the government to reclaim land from defaulters. This enforcement aims to ensure adherence to land use regulations and to recuperate funds essential for infrastructural development within the FCT.
Nyesom Wike: Grace Period for Recent Defaulters
While immediate revocation applies to those in default for over a decade, Nyesom Wike has extended a 21-day grace period to property owners who have defaulted on ground rent payments for less than ten years. This window allows these individuals to settle their outstanding debts to avoid revocation of their land titles.
This approach balances strict enforcement with an opportunity for compliance, reflecting the administration’s willingness to accommodate property owners who demonstrate a commitment to fulfilling their financial obligations within the stipulated timeframe.
Historical Context and Persistent Non-Compliance
The issue of unpaid ground rent in Abuja is not a recent development. Despite numerous publications in national newspapers and announcements on broadcast media since 2023, many allottees failed to respond. This persistent non-compliance has necessitated the current stringent actions to enforce payment and ensure the sustainability of the FCT’s development projects.
Financial Implications for FCT Development
The accumulation of unpaid ground rent, totaling nearly ₦7 billion, has significantly impacted the FCT’s revenue streams. These funds are crucial for financing infrastructural projects, including road construction, public utilities, and other essential services. By enforcing payment compliance, the administration aims to bolster its financial capacity to undertake and complete development initiatives that benefit the broader populace.
Future Outlook and Policy Enforcement
Nyesom Wike’s decisive action serves as a stern warning to property owners about the importance of adhering to statutory obligations. The administration has made it clear that non-compliance will result in severe consequences, including the loss of land rights. This policy enforcement is expected to instill a culture of responsibility among property owners and ensure that the FCT’s development objectives are not hindered by revenue shortfalls due to unpaid obligations.
Nyesom Wike’s revocation of 4,794 land titles over unpaid ground rent marks a pivotal moment in Abuja’s land administration. It highlights the government’s resolve to enforce compliance, recover owed revenues, and channel these funds into the capital city’s sustainable development.
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