Paragraph 1: The Impending Takeover of Properties in the Federal Capital Territory
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) is set to commence the physical takeover of 4,794 properties starting Monday, May 26th, 2025. This action follows the revocation of land titles due to non-payment of ground rent, with some debts accumulating for periods ranging from 10 to 43 years. This announcement was made during a joint press briefing attended by key FCTA officials, including the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media, the Director of Land Administration, and the Director of Development Control. The FCTA emphasized that this action is in accordance with the Land Use Act, specifically Section 28, Subsections 5(a) and (b), which empowers the government to reclaim land in cases of breaches of occupancy terms.
Paragraph 2: Targeted Properties and Legal Justification
The properties slated for takeover are located in prominent districts within the Federal Capital City, including Central Area, Garki I and II, Wuse I and II, Asokoro, Maitama, and Guzape. FCTA officials reiterated that ownership of these properties has reverted to the government, and they will proceed with exercising their ownership rights without regard to the current occupants. This process will be executed in strict compliance with existing laws and regulations. The initial list of defaulters encompassed properties within ten of the oldest districts in Phase 1 of the Federal Capital City. These districts include Central Area, Garki I, Wuse I, Garki II, Asokoro, Maitama, Wuse II, and Guzape, all representing prime locations within the FCT.
Paragraph 3: Historical Context and Accumulated Debt
The FCTA’s action follows an earlier announcement on March 18th, 2025, identifying 4,794 properties out of a total of 8,375 as being in default on ground rent payments. Among these defaulters was the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party, currently under construction in the Central Business District. The total amount owed by these property owners exceeded N6.96 billion, prompting the revocation of their titles. The properties represent a significant cross-section of landholders within the FCT, and the accumulated debt underscores the long-standing nature of this issue.
Paragraph 4: Grace Period and Enforcement of Regulations
Despite the revocation notice, the FCTA, under the leadership of Mr. Wike, granted a 21-day grace period to those with outstanding ground rent payments of less than 10 years. This period allowed them an opportunity to settle their debts and avoid the revocation of their titles. However, with the expiration of the grace period, the FCTA is now proceeding with the enforcement of the revocation for those who failed to comply. The Director of Land emphasized that payment of ground rent is a legal obligation stipulated in the terms and conditions of the Right of Occupancy, payable annually on the first of January.
Paragraph 5: Legal Challenges and FCTA’s Response
In response to reports of legal challenges by some property owners, the Director of Land clarified that no court decision has been issued to restrain the FCTA’s actions. Therefore, the administration is proceeding with the takeover of the affected properties unhindered. The Director of Development Control further explained that the exercise would involve sealing off the properties and restricting access. The FCTA will determine the future use of these properties in due course. This firm stance by the FCTA underlines its commitment to enforcing land regulations within the FCT.
Paragraph 6: Implications and Future Steps
The FCTA’s actions have significant implications for property owners in the FCT. It serves as a strong reminder of the importance of adhering to land use regulations and fulfilling financial obligations related to land ownership. The takeover of these properties will likely reshape the landscape of the affected districts and generate substantial revenue for the FCTA. The administration’s next steps will involve managing the reclaimed properties and potentially re-allocating them in line with urban development plans. This assertive measure by the FCTA signifies a decisive move to address long-standing land-related issues and ensure compliance with existing regulations.
