The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has commenced enforcement on 4,794 properties revoked for non-payment of Ground Rent, ranging from 10 to 43 years. However, following the intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, property holders have been given a 14-day grace period to settle their outstanding Ground Rents with associated penalties.

In a statement signed by Chijioke Nwankwoeze, Director of Land Administration, FCT, property owners in the Central Area are expected to pay a penalty of N5 million in addition to the Ground Rent owed. Those in Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse II, and Guzape Districts will pay N3 million, while defaulters in Wuse I, Garki I, and Garki II will pay N2 million as penalty.

Nwankwoeze stated that the FCT Administration is committed to carrying out its functions without fear or favour. “The Federal Capital Territory Administration’s commitment to carrying out its functions without fear or favour,” Nwankwoeze said, highlighting the administration’s stance.

The Director of Land Administration also urged property owners to take advantage of the grace period to settle their outstanding bills. “Going forward, the Minister has advised property owners in the FCT to ensure that they pay all necessary bills and charges on their properties as at and when due,” Nwankwoeze added.

Nwankwoeze further emphasized that property holders who have purchased properties but are yet to register their interests have 14 days to obtain the mandatory Minister’s Consent and register their Deeds of Assignment at the FCT Department of Land Administration. The Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has granted the 14-day grace period to all property holders in the FCT to pay up their Right of Occupancy/Certificate of Occupancy bills, or risk revocation of those titles.