The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on landowners in Abuja to settle their outstanding ground rents, warning that failure to comply may result in the loss of their properties. The appeal was made during the inauguration of infrastructure projects in the Bwari Area Council, Abuja, on Monday.
Wike emphasized the crucial role ground rent plays in financing the FCT’s development, likening it to the region’s “oil.” He stated that these funds directly support road construction and other infrastructure projects across the capital territory.
“I have published the names of debtors in today’s newspapers,” Wike said, noting that some attendees at the event were among those in arrears. He highlighted the importance of taxpayer contributions, reminding residents that paying taxes and ground rent entitles them to hold the government accountable.
“When you pay a tax, you have the right to ask questions. What do you do with my money?” he added, encouraging residents to contribute to the FCT’s development through timely payment of ground rent while assuring them of transparency in the administration’s use of public funds.
