The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved the revocation of 4,794 land titles across ten districts in Abuja due to the non-payment of ground rent for over four decades. The decision, according to the FCT Administration, is part of a broader effort to enforce compliance with land regulations and recover outstanding revenue for the government.
Decades of Non-Compliance Triggers Action
The affected landowners had reportedly failed to fulfil their statutory obligations despite multiple warnings and opportunities to regularize their payments. The FCT Administration noted that the ground rent, a key requirement for land ownership in Abuja, had been ignored for years, forcing the government to take decisive action.
Announcing the revocation, the FCT Minister emphasized the importance of adherence to legal requirements, stating:
“Land ownership in Abuja comes with responsibilities. You cannot hold onto government property indefinitely without fulfilling your obligations. The administration has given enough time and notices, yet thousands of landowners have refused to comply.”
Breakdown of Affected Areas
The land revocation affects properties spread across several prime districts of the FCT, including, Maitama, Asokoro, Gwarinpa, Wuse, Jabi, Gudu, Katampe, Central Business District, Lugbe, Kubwa. The administration has assured that legitimate landowners who can provide evidence of compliance will have the opportunity to reclaim their titles upon verification.
Enforcement and Future Implications
Officials of the FCT Administration have stated that following the revocation, the affected plots will either be reallocated or repurposed for public use, depending on urban planning priorities.
Real estate analysts suggest that the decision could have significant implications for Abuja’s property market. While some argue that it will free up land for new developments, others warn that it could create uncertainty among investors.
Legal experts have also advised affected landowners to seek immediate redress through appropriate channels to avoid permanent loss of their property rights.
A Crackdown on Land Violations?
This latest move follows Wike’s earlier warnings about reclaiming lands that have remained undeveloped or whose owners have failed to meet financial obligations. The Minister has been vocal about ending the culture of land speculation and ensuring that land in Abuja is used productively.
With this mass revocation, the FCT Administration has reiterated its commitment to enforcing compliance with land regulations and generating revenue necessary for infrastructure development in the capital city.
TheLink News NG will continue to track this developing story and provide updates as new details emerge.
