“We Will Not Look at Your Face” – Wike Warns Ground Rent Defaulters, Land-Grabbers, Threatens More Revocations

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to property owners who have failed to pay their ground rents despite repeated notifications, stating that his administration will not tolerate blackmail or sentiment in enforcing the law. Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, Wike reaffirmed his commitment to revoking properties from defaulters and maintaining order in land administration.

Wike also cautioned construction companies against land-grabbing practices. He emphasized that lands allocated to them for temporary use, such as storing equipment during projects, do not equate to ownership. The minister cited a recent directive for construction giant Julius Berger to vacate a site in the central business district after completing its work, underscoring that the land remains government property.

In a move to bolster security in the FCT, Wike handed over 50 Hilux vehicles to security agencies, complementing a similar distribution earlier this year. Additionally, he announced the ongoing construction of 12 new police divisions across the six area councils, with plans for completion and handover to the FCT Police Command by April 2024. “This is to enhance security across satellite towns, rural areas, and the city. Everywhere is important to us,” Wike said.

The minister addressed criticisms surrounding his recent revocation of land allegedly linked to Niger Delta activist Chief Rita Lori Ogbebor. He challenged affected individuals to present valid documents proving ownership, stating, “Blackmail won’t work. If you believe you have a legitimate claim, show your documents. We will not be deterred by activism or television campaigns.”

Wike dismissed claims that prolonged illegal occupation of government land confers ownership, insisting that adherence to due process is non-negotiable. He reiterated that his administration is determined to correct past oversights in land administration, regardless of how long violations have persisted.

The minister’s firm stance on land issues reflects his broader commitment to upholding governance standards in the FCT. “What is wrong is wrong. No amount of blackmail or sentiment can change that,” he said. Wike encouraged residents and businesses with land-related grievances to approach his administration constructively, assuring them of fair resolution through proper channels.