The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is set to take possession of 4,794 properties that have been revoked due to non-payment of Ground Rent, some of which have been in default for as long as 43 years. This significant move, which will commence on Monday, has been announced by key officials including FCT Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Director of Land Administration, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, and Director Department of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima.
The FCTA has identified the 4,794 properties located in various districts including Central Area, Garki I and II, Wuse I and II, Asokoro, Maitama, and Guzape, and confirmed that ownership has reverted back to the government. Beginning next week, the government will exercise its rights over these properties, irrespective of their current ownership status. This process will be carried out in accordance with existing laws and regulations governing such matters to ensure transparency and fairness for all parties involved.
The Director of Development Control has revealed that affected properties will be sealed up, and access will be restricted starting Monday. The FCTA will then assess the situation and determine the appropriate steps to be taken in relation to the properties in question. Despite claims of court intervention, the Director of Lands clarified that no court decision hinders the FCTA from executing its rightful actions concerning the revoked properties.
Chijioke Nwankwoeze informed that records of compliance and non-compliance regarding Ground Rent payment are being compiled. Title holders who have defaulted on payments for one to ten years were given a 21-day grace period to settle their dues. The FCTA will review the compiled data and take necessary actions based on the findings to ensure adherence to the law and regulations regarding property ownership in the FCT.
Recalling the initial announcement made in March, where 4,794 land titles were revoked due to non-payment, it was emphasized that ownership had reverted back to the FCTA. Starting from May 26, 2025, the government will implement its plans to reclaim the affected properties using appropriate channels. The exercise will be conducted fairly and without bias, aligning with the established legal framework for such situations.
The FCTA’s decision to take possession of the 4,794 properties revoked over non-payment of Ground Rent signifies a significant step towards enforcing compliance with property ownership regulations in the capital territory. By following due process and adhering to existing laws, the government aims to underscore the importance of fulfilling financial obligations related to property ownership and maintenance. The upcoming actions signal a new chapter in ensuring accountability and responsibility among property owners in the FCT.
