FCT Minister Wike Imposes ₦5 Million Fine and 7.5% Penalty on Land Defaulters

FCT Minister Wike Cracks Down on Land Defaulters in Abuja

In a bold move to sanitize land administration in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Nyesom Wike has introduced a ₦5 million fine and an additional 7.5% annual penalty for land defaulters. The new directive targets individuals and organizations that have failed to develop allocated plots within the stipulated timeframe.

Why the New Fines Were Introduced

The FCT Administration has repeatedly raised concerns over the large number of undeveloped plots scattered across Abuja. These undeveloped lands, many of which have remained idle for years, hinder urban planning and infrastructure development. According to Wike, the policy is aimed at deterring speculative land ownership and encouraging responsible use of allocated land.

Chairman of the Land Use and Purposes Clause Committee and Director of Development Control, Muktar Galadima, said the committee found that many properties on Ademola Adetokunbo Street, Aminu Kano Crescent, Yakubu Gowon Street, and Gana Street, among others, had been converted to residential, commercial or mixed usage, contravening the original agreements.

He added that the total capital value of the said properties amounted to N1,037,478,716,500, while recommending various sanctions on the defaulting title holders, including sealing of property, removal of buildings and structures, revocation and withdrawal of titles, if they failed to pay the fines.

Wike gave the approval after receiving the report of the committee set up to address the abuse of the Land Use Act in the FCT, in his office on Tuesday.

Breakdown of the Penalties

Under the new policy:

• A defaulting landowner will be fined ₦5 million.

• An additional 7.5% charge will be applied annually for continued non-compliance.
  These measures are designed to push allottees to either develop their plots or relinquish them for reassignment.

Who is Affected by the New Policy?

The fines will apply to all allottees—individuals, businesses, or organizations—who have failed to make meaningful development on their allocated lands within the required period. The FCT Administration will begin a comprehensive review of all undeveloped plots to identify defaulters.

How to Avoid FCT Land Sanctions

To avoid these harsh penalties, landowners should:

• Begin development promptly after allocation.

• Obtain the necessary approvals and permits.

• Engage with the FCT Department of Development Control if they face genuine challenges.

Final Thoughts

The FCT Minister’s directive sends a strong message: land hoarding and speculative ownership will no longer be tolerated in Abuja. If you’re a landowner in the FCT, now is the time to act. Either begin development or face steep financial consequences.