Wike to resume enforcement of ground rent, land fees in FCT

By Angela Atabo

The Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to begin enforcement actions on defaulters of Ground Rent payment and Land Use Change/Conversion fees in the territory from November 26.

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister made the announcement in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

Olayinka recalled that following President Bola Tinubu’s intervention, Wike granted defaulters a 14-day grace period to pay outstanding Ground Rent on May 26.

“The 14-day grace expired on June 9, over five months ago,” he noted.

He also cited previous publications in national newspapers and online platforms on the revised Land Use/Purpose Clause.

“The notices gave defaulters 30 days to pay violation fees of N5 million and other applicable charges for land use change or conversion.

“A final grace period of 14 days was granted for properties in Asokoro, Maitama, Garki, and Wuse districts, which will expire on Monday, Nov. 24.”

Olayinka said that enforcement would commence from Wednesday, Nov. 26, targeting all defaulters, including those who purchased properties without completing the required registration and consent procedures.

He said the FCTA would also target defaulters of Right of Occupancy (R-of-O) and Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) bills.

The action would include property purchasers who had not registered their interests with the mandatory Minister’s Consent or completed their Deeds of Assignment.

(NAN)