‘Something Will Surely Happen’ – Nyesom Wike Issues Stern Warning to Ground Rent Defaulters in FCT

In a resolute message delivered on Tuesday, Mr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), cautioned individuals, organizations, and agencies who are defaulting on their ground rent obligations within the capital city. Wike’s statement made it unequivocally clear that his previous warnings should not be taken lightly, as “something will surely happen” once the deadline for fulfilling their obligations passes.

This firm declaration came during a visit by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) leadership, headed by its President, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, who met with Wike in Abuja.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) had previously issued a directive for allottees of lands in Abuja to settle their ground rent obligations according to the terms outlined in their Certificates of Occupancy (C of O). The FCTA explicitly stated that a failure to comply with these terms could result in the revocation of their land titles.

Minister Wike, addressing the NUJ leadership, reaffirmed his commitment to enforcing this measure by revoking the titles of defaulters when the FCTA’s given deadline expires. He emphasized the need to uphold the law and expressed his determination to act accordingly.

Furthermore, Wike explained that since the removal of the Administration from the Treasury Single Account, they have been able to save significant Internally Generated Revenue. This move has signaled the end of abandoned projects within the FCT. He stressed that these decisions were made with the long-term well-being of the FCT in mind, even if they are unpopular.

Wike extended his support to the media and recognized their role as crucial partners in the development of the region.

Dr. Chris Isiguzo, the NUJ President, praised Wike for his transformational leadership, citing his previous role as governor of Rivers State. He also appreciated the Minister’s media-friendly approach and offered the union’s support through responsible journalism.

Isiguzo also appealed to the Minister for support in capacity-building programs and the creation of a Media Village in Abuja. This request aligns with the broader objective of fostering a more robust media presence in the nation’s capital.

For those required to make ground rent payments, the procedure involves using the REMITA portal to generate a REMITA Retrieval Reference (RRR). The process is accessible through the REMITA portal, where individuals must select “Pay TSA & States,” followed by “Federal Capital Territory Administration,” and then choose “FCC Ground Rent” as the relevant revenue head. Once the necessary information is provided, the RRR slip can be printed and the payment can be made at any commercial bank.