I derive joy in stepping on the toes of big people who think the law doesn’t apply to them. If you don’t pay what is due, something will happen. We are serious about this
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strict enforcement of ground rent payments and other land-related regulations in the nation’s capital.
Speaking on Monday, Wike boldly declared that he is unbothered by any potential backlash from powerful individuals who may feel targeted by his firm stance on law enforcement.
According to the minister, the days when certain elites acted with impunity—believing themselves to be above the law—are over. “Some people think because they are highly placed, they can ignore government policies without consequences. That era is gone,” Wike stated.
He emphasized that the enforcement of ground rent payments applies to everyone, regardless of their social or political standing. “I derive joy in stepping on the toes of big people who think the law doesn’t apply to them. If you don’t pay what is due, something will happen. We are serious about this,” he warned.
Wike made it clear that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is committed to restoring order, accountability, and transparency in land administration across the territory. He added that government revenue from ground rent is essential for the development and maintenance of critical infrastructure within Abuja and surrounding areas.
He stressed that defaulting property owners, no matter how influential, will not be spared. The minister’s remarks come amid ongoing efforts by the FCTA to recover billions of naira in unpaid ground rents and to sanitize land ownership processes in the territory.
While further details of the enforcement drive are expected to emerge in the coming days, Wike’s message is clear: the FCT administration will not be intimidated by elite influence or disregard for the rule of law.