The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to seize 4,794 properties in Abuja due to long-standing unpaid ground rents. This action, set to commence on May 26, 2025, affects both private and government-owned properties, including the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Key Takeaways
- FCTA will begin the physical takeover of 4,794 properties on May 26, 2025.
- Properties affected include those in key districts such as Central Area, Garki, Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, and Guzape.
- The ground rent owed by property owners ranges from 10 to 43 years, totaling over N6.96 billion.
- The FCTA has stated that the revocation process is in accordance with the Land Use Act.
- Property owners are reportedly lobbying to prevent the seizure of their properties.
Background of the Seizure
The FCTA’s decision follows a revocation of land titles announced in March 2025 by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The revocation was based on the failure of property owners to pay ground rents, which are annual fees required for the right to occupy and use land. Many of the affected properties have not paid these fees for decades, with some defaults dating back as far as 43 years.
Details of the Affected Properties
The properties targeted for seizure are located in several prominent districts of Abuja, including:
- Central Area
- Garki I and II
- Wuse I and II
- Asokoro
- Maitama
- Guzape
The FCTA has indicated that the ownership of these properties has reverted to the government, and they will begin sealing off access to them starting Monday. This action is expected to be executed without regard to the current ownership status of the properties.
Legal Framework and Compliance
According to FCTA officials, the revocation and subsequent seizure of properties are in line with the Land Use Act, specifically Section 28, which allows the government to reclaim land for violations of occupancy terms. The FCTA has emphasized that there are no court orders preventing this action, and they are proceeding with the takeover as planned.
Reactions and Lobbying Efforts
In the wake of this announcement, there has been significant panic among property owners. Many have begun lobbying the FCTA to reconsider the seizure, particularly those who are politically connected. Reports indicate that calls for intervention started immediately after the FCTA’s press briefing, highlighting the urgency and concern among affected parties.
Conclusion
As the FCTA prepares to enforce this significant policy, the implications for property owners in Abuja are profound. The upcoming seizure of nearly 5,000 properties marks a critical moment in the administration’s efforts to enforce compliance with land use regulations. The situation remains fluid, with many property owners seeking to resolve their outstanding debts to avoid losing their properties altogether.
Sources
- FCTA: Jam’iyyar PDP Ta Ƙara Shiga Garari, An Kwace Babbar Hedkwatarta Ta Ƙasa a Abuja, Legit.ng.
- PDP secretariat risks being sealed off as FCTA takes over 4,794 revoked properties, TheCable.
- Page not found | TheGuildNG, TheGuildNG.
- FCTA to takeover 4,794 Abuja property over unpaid ground rent, Punch Newspapers.
- Panic, lobbying over FCTA’s threat to seize properties in Abuja, The Nation Newspaper.
