The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a call to all landowners within the FCT to pay any outstanding ground rents, warning that failure to comply could result in the forfeiture of their properties.
Wike made this appeal while inaugurating the upgrade of the War College/Army Checkpoint Road and additional roads in the Ushafa area of Bwari Area Council in Abuja.
Emphasizing the critical role of ground rent payments, Wike likened them to the “FCT’s oil,” underscoring that these funds are essential for the FCT Administration to provide necessary infrastructure and services. “I have published the names of debtors in today’s newspapers,” he announced, highlighting that some individuals present at the inauguration are included on the list of defaulters.
Wike stressed, “Pay your ground rent. That is what I have used to construct all the roads in FCT.”
He also addressed complaints from some residents who claim difficulty in navigating Abuja, clarifying that the funds from ground rent payments are what enable the government to build and maintain roads in the FCT.
“Some of you have been saying that when you come to Abuja, you miss your road. Is it by mouth? It is ground rent money that we are using to construct the roads,” he added.
Wike urged residents to fulfill their obligations by paying ground rent, reminding them that as taxpayers, they have the right to hold the government accountable for how their taxes are utilized. “So please, I urge you, let us do our own part,” he continued. “When you do your part, and the government fails to do its own, then you can demand answers—what are you doing with all the taxes we are paying?
”He assured residents of transparency in government spending, stating, “We will tell you what we have done and what we plan to continue doing with your money.” Wike further encouraged residents, saying, “When you pay tax, you have the right to ask questions. What do you do with my money? No one will stop you from doing that.”
The minister’s message reinforced the importance of a collaborative relationship between residents and the FCT Administration, emphasizing the value of tax revenue in supporting infrastructure projects and improving public services.
