President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stepped in to temporarily suspend the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) clampdown on property owners who have failed to pay ground rent for up to 43 years.
On Monday, May 26, 2025, FCTA officials began sealing 4,794 properties across Abuja for non-payment. Among the high-profile buildings affected were the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and several major commercial buildings. The action sparked concern among residents, businesses, and diplomats.
Following Tinubu’s intervention, affected property owners now have 14 days to settle their outstanding ground rent—along with a location-based penalty—or risk permanent revocation of their titles.
Penalties Based on Location
The FCTA announced strict penalties, depending on the district:
Central Area: ₦5 million penalty plus the full amount of ground rent owed
Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse II, and Guzape: ₦3 million penalty
Wuse I, Garki I, and Garki II: ₦2 million penalty
According to Chijioke Nwankwoeze, Director of Land Administration, the president’s move should not be misunderstood as a pardon.
“This is a compassionate window, not a cancellation,” he said.
He also reminded buyers who purchased land without completing the proper documentation—such as obtaining the Minister’s Consent or registering their Deeds of Assignment—that they have the same 14-day deadline. Failure to comply will lead to forfeiture under the Land Use Act.
Wike: Ground Rent Funds Public Projects
In a press briefing, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike emphasized that ground rent is a vital revenue source for the capital.
“Development cannot continue on charity,” Wike stated, revealing that total arrears have now surpassed ₦39 billion.
He added that funds from ground rent support roads, drainage, schools, hospitals, and other public infrastructure.
The minister also issued a parallel 14-day deadline for property owners to pay outstanding Right of Occupancy (R-of-O) and Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) fees. Titles will be revoked en masse if payments are not made on time.
A Balancing Act for Tinubu
Political analysts describe Tinubu’s action as a careful balancing act. On one hand, his administration is pushing to increase non-oil revenue and promote fiscal discipline. On the other, the mass sealing of properties—especially high-profile ones—posed serious risks to Abuja’s economic stability and political atmosphere.
By granting a short reprieve rather than backing down, Tinubu aims to recover overdue funds while preventing legal chaos.
Legal Experts: The Clock Is Ticking
Real estate lawyers are urging clients to act fast. Zainab Adesina, a partner at Capital Chambers, said the 14-day window should be taken seriously.
“This is not a holiday. Once the deadline passes, enforcement will resume and the legal grounds will be solid,” she warned.
She advised property owners to clear their debts, arrange payment plans, and regularize ownership documentation immediately.
Public Reactions Divided
Public opinion on the crackdown is mixed. Residents of Abuja’s satellite towns, many of whom lack basic infrastructure, support the move. They view it as a way to hold wealthy defaulters accountable.
However, businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors worry that sudden large payments could force layoffs or price hikes. The Abuja Chamber of Commerce has appealed for staggered payment plans, but FCTA insists the current penalties are final.
Calls for Fairer Penalty System
Civil society groups have also raised concerns. Dr. Umar Abdullahi of the Centre for Urban Justice argued that flat penalties are unfair.
“A blanket surcharge affects ordinary homeowners more than multinational firms,” he said.
He suggested a sliding scale based on land size, property use, and owner category. The FCTA says it may consider this for future billing cycles, but the current framework remains unchanged.
Conclusion: The Message Is Clear
President Tinubu’s intervention shows a desire to lead with both firmness and fairness. But the message is clear: no more waivers.
The FCTA expects all landowners to pay their dues or lose their property rights. The 14-day grace period is the final opportunity for compliance. Landlords must settle their arrears, update their records, and avoid risking valuable real estate in the heart of Nigeria’s capital.
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