President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stepped in to soften the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s tough enforcement drive on unpaid ground rents, giving thousands of defaulters a final 14-day grace period to settle their debts or risk permanent loss of their properties.
The enforcement action, which began today, targets 4,794 properties across Abuja—some delinquent on ground rent payments for up to 43 years. The affected properties include those owned by government bodies, corporate organizations, and private individuals.
Initially marked for revocation, the properties have been granted temporary reprieve following President Tinubu’s intervention. However, the grace comes with stiff penalties.
Penalty Breakdown:
Central Area: N5 million penalty plus owed rent
Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse II, Guzape: N3 million penalty plus owed rent
Wuse I, Garki I & II: N2 million penalty plus owed rent
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In addition, all property buyers who have yet to obtain Minister’s Consent or register their Deeds of Assignment now have 14 days to comply with FCT land registration regulations or face legal consequences.
FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike has also extended the grace period to all Right of Occupancy (R-of-O) and Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) holders to pay their bills within two weeks or risk having their titles revoked.
“The days of impunity are over. This administration will no longer tolerate neglect of legal obligations that hinder development,” Wike said.
The FCTA emphasized that revenues from these rents are essential for sustaining infrastructure and service delivery in the capital city. Property owners are urged to settle all dues promptly to avoid further sanctions.