The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has revoked 4,794 land titles due to non-payment of Ground Rent for decades.
In Central Area, Garki, Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, and Guzape, 8,375 property owners failed to pay rent for 43 years.
Government’s Justification for Revocation
At a press briefing, Minister’s aide Lere Olayinka and FCTA Lands Director Chijioke Nwankwoeze explained the enforcement process.
Despite multiple warnings since 2023, defaulters failed to comply, leading to the revocation of properties in Phase 1 districts.
The government stated that Ground Rent is legally mandated and due annually on January 1 without formal demand.
Outstanding Debt and Future Implications
As of 2024, property owners owed ₦6.97 billion in unpaid rent, violating the Land Use Act’s provisions.
Landowners with arrears between one and ten years have 21 days to pay or risk losing their properties.
