Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that he takes great satisfaction in confronting influential figures over issues related to ground rents. His comments come as the FCT Administration intensifies efforts to enforce payment of ground rents by high-profile property owners.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, Wike declared, “I derive joy in stepping on the toes of big people who think they are untouchable. Everyone must obey the law, and the era of impunity is over.”
The minister has come under both praise and criticism for his tough stance on defaulters, which he says is necessary to boost the FCT’s revenue base and ensure fairness. The crackdown, he insists, will continue regardless of status or social standing.
“No one is above the law,” Wike said. “If you want to use government land, you must pay what is due. We are not targeting anyone unfairly, but there will be no sacred cows.”
Analysts believe the campaign could help address long-standing issues of revenue leakage in the FCT. However, some property owners have expressed concerns about the fairness of the process and called for clearer communication on payment terms.
As the administration pushes forward, Wike remains undeterred. “We will recover these funds,” he said. “Ground rents are not charity. They are obligations.”
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