Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to individuals and organizations owing ground rents in Abuja, urging them to settle their debts or risk losing their lands.

Wike emphasized that the FCT Administration’s primary interest is not to re-acquire the lands but to generate revenue for infrastructural development.

“We need the funds to develop the city,” Wike explained during an inspection of ongoing projects in Abuja.

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“Our interest is not to have the lands back, but for them to pay so we can use the funds for the development of their city.”

The minister noted that the process of revocation had been ongoing for years, and he was simply implementing existing policies.

Wike also addressed reports that the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, had denied owing ground rents, stating that those who have paid and can produce their receipts will not be affected.

A two-week grace period granted to defaulters will expire on January 3, 2025, and Wike emphasized that it will not be extended.

“Nigerians don’t like to comply,” he said. “These allocations were done more than 10 years ago. We have been able to do justice by making sure that people are going to abide and comply.”

Wike remains resolute in the face of criticism, stating, “I have never complained of distractions. Nothing distracts me. I am very focused.”

He reiterated his commitment to implementing the policies, even if it means reallocating lands to new owners.