The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced that it will begin strict enforcement against individuals and organisations owing Ground Rent and Land Use Change or Conversion fees from November 26.
The disclosure was made in Abuja through a statement issued by Mr Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
According to him, the clampdown will also extend to those who have failed to settle their Right of Occupancy (R-of-O) and Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) liabilities.
The measures will further affect property owners who bought real estate but failed to obtain the compulsory Minister’s Consent or did not finalise their Deeds of Assignment.
Olayinka explained that the Minister had previously offered a window of leniency to defaulters.
“The 14-day grace expired on June 9, over five months ago,” he recalled, noting that the gesture followed President Bola Tinubu’s intervention when outstanding Ground Rent payments were due on May 26.
He added that notices had earlier been published in national newspapers and online platforms regarding the updated Land Use or Purpose Clause.
“The notices gave defaulters 30 days to pay violation fees of N5 million and other applicable charges for land use change or conversion.
“A final grace period of 14 days was granted for properties in Asokoro, Maitama, Garki, and Wuse districts, which will expire on Monday, Nov. 24.”
He stressed that full enforcement would commence on Wednesday, November 26, targeting all categories of offenders, including those who acquired properties without completing mandatory registration processes or obtaining ministerial consent.
