Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced the commencement of enforcement actions to reclaim 4,794 properties in Abuja over long-standing ground rent debts, including the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) permanent headquarters currently under construction in the Central Business District.
Speaking through top officials at a joint press briefing on Friday, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) revealed that the revocations, executed under Section 28(5)(a)(b) of the Land Use Act, were due to non-payment of rent obligations, with some arrears dating back over four decades. The total amount owed exceeds ₦6.96 billion.
Effective Monday, May 26, 2025, the FCTA will begin sealing off and taking possession of affected properties in key districts such as Central Area, Garki, Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, and Guzape.
Officials emphasized that enforcement will proceed without regard to ownership status, as the legal terms of occupancy have been violated. The FCTA had earlier issued a 21-day grace period for defaulters, which has since elapsed.
“There was no court decision halting the revocation, and the FCTA is fully empowered to act,” said Director of Land Administration, Chijioke Nwankwoeze,
Development Control Director Mukhtar Galadima confirmed that access to the properties will be restricted starting Monday.
