…Says FCT Administration Won’t Yield to Blackmail, “No One Is Above the Law”
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has vowed that the FCT Administration will not bow to pressure, intimidation, or blackmail in its renewed drive to enforce payment of ground rent and other statutory taxes across the capital.
Speaking on Wednesday during an inspection tour of completed and ongoing projects in Abuja—part of preparations to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office—Wike said elite property owners must comply with tax obligations or face consequences.
“Let nobody think that blackmail or whatever will stop us. We will do what we are supposed to do. This is about leadership. We will not give in to blackmail; we will do the right thing,” he stated emphatically.
The Minister expressed concern over the growing trend of tax evasion among wealthy individuals, many of whom own properties abroad yet willingly fulfill their tax duties in those countries while flouting the law at home.
“It’s unfortunate. The same elites who own homes overseas know the implications of not paying taxes there—their houses would be seized. But here, everyone wants to circumvent the law,” he said.
Wike disclosed that he has signed over 1,500 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-Os) and property assignments in recent months. However, many beneficiaries have failed to remit the required ground rent and associated taxes.
“You collect a C-of-O and then you don’t want to pay your taxes? That it didn’t happen yesterday doesn’t mean it won’t happen today or tomorrow,” he warned.
He reminded residents that the two-week compliance window approved by President Tinubu for defaulting property owners remains in effect but will not be extended indefinitely.
The Minister reiterated that the administration’s development agenda—including roads, street lighting, water infrastructure, and public services—depends heavily on internally generated revenue.
“People want roads, lights, water, but no one is asking where the money is coming from. Abuja doesn’t have oil wells. We rely on taxes. And let me be clear: we have not increased ground rent yet. But we will,” he said.
Wike reaffirmed his commitment to equity and rule of law in tax enforcement, insisting that no one, regardless of status, would be spared.
