Wike Vows Ground Rent Hike, Slams Elites Over Tax Evasion in Abuja

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has sounded a stern warning to Abuja residents and organizations over their failure to pay ground rent and taxes, revealing plans for an impending increase in rates. Addressing journalists on Wednesday after inspecting infrastructure projects across the capital, Wike expressed deep frustration at what he described as a culture of entitlement without responsibility.

“My greatest challenge is the refusal of people to pay what they owe,” Wike lamented. “People demand infrastructure and services, but forget that Abuja isn’t an oil-producing city. We survive on taxes, and unfortunately, many are not willing to pay their share.”

The minister criticized wealthy Nigerians who abide by tax laws abroad but feel entitled to evade such responsibilities at home. “They understand the consequences of tax default overseas—properties can be seized. But in Nigeria, they believe there are no consequences. That mindset must change,” he added.

He revealed that some residents and organizations owe ground rents dating back two or three decades, even though the rates have remained unchanged for years. To address this, Wike confirmed that the FCT administration is reviewing the existing charges and will implement a new pricing structure soon.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently approved a two-week waiver period for affected parties to settle their dues. This came after widespread criticism following the FCTA’s move to seal the properties of major defaulters. These included the headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), NAPTIP, a TotalEnergies filling station, and a branch of Access Bank.

While opposition parties and agencies decried the move as heavy-handed, Wike remained unfazed. “Let no one think blackmail or intimidation will stop us. We must do what is necessary to sustain the city,” he said firmly.

He noted that penalties between N2 million and N3 million will be enforced depending on a property’s location. Wike also disclosed that more than 1,500 Certificates of Occupancy and Deeds of Assignment have been signed in recent months, reiterating that those who pay their taxes will see the value reflected in improved infrastructure.

“This is not about politics, it’s about development. Abuja must be built with the contributions of those who live and do business here,” Wike concluded.

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