Wike Flexes Authority: ₦5m Fine for FCT Land Use Violators
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike implements strict ₦5m penalty for land use violations, demonstrating robust governance in Nigeria's capital development strategy. Defaulters face 30-day compliance deadline.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike announces strict penalties for land use violations in Abuja
In a bold move demonstrating Nigeria's commitment to sovereign land management, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has imposed strict penalties on land use violators, including a hefty ₦5m fine for defaulters who must comply within 30 days.
Strengthening Financial Governance in the Capital
This decisive action, which mirrors recent efforts to strengthen regulatory compliance in Nigeria's financial sector, includes a 7.5% charge on the Assessed Capital Value of properties converted without FCT Administration approval.
Comprehensive Enforcement Strategy
The initiative stems from committee findings revealing widespread violations across premium locations including Ademola Adetokunbo Street and Aminu Kano Crescent. The total capital value of affected properties amounts to ₦1.037 trillion, showcasing the scale of the enforcement drive.
"I'm not going to leave anybody to go free. We are looking for money to carry on projects," declared Minister Wike, emphasizing the administration's determination.
Key Penalty Components:
- Mandatory 30-day payment window for conversion fees
- Additional statutory Right of Occupancy charges
- 2.0% fee on assessed Capital Value for unauthorized modifications
This regulatory overhaul aligns with broader national efforts to enhance financial governance and economic sovereignty, while creating new opportunities for strategic investment in African urban development.
Implications for Property Owners
The administration has made it clear that non-compliance will result in severe consequences, including property sealing, structure removal, and title revocation. This enforcement mechanism ensures that FCT's development aligns with established urban planning principles.
Tunde Okoro
Nigerian journalist with a Pan-African voice. Covers politics, sovereignty, and social justice across West Africa.