The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has issued yet another stern ultimatum to 762 plot owners in the Maitama II District, Abuja. These defaulters have been granted a final two-week extension to pay for their Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) or face the ultimate consequence: the revocation of their land allocations.
This directive, announced by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, appears to be Wike’s latest move in his land reform campaign. While the minister insists the government’s goal is not to strip people of their lands but to ensure compliance with payment obligations, the public is left questioning the aggressive enforcement tactics.
Back in October, a list of 3,273 defaulters was published, giving them a two-week grace period to settle their dues. Out of these, 2,511 reportedly complied, leaving 762 individuals still in default. Despite their apparent indifference, some of these defaulters are now struggling to pay after another revocation notice was issued, prompting Wike to grant this final extension.
The latest extension ends on January 3, 2025, after which, according to Wike, there will be no more leniency. Failure to comply will result in the withdrawal of Right of Occupancy (R-of-O) titles, in line with Section 28 of the Land Use Act of 1978. The minister has warned that this time, the revocation will be final.
This ultimatum comes just a day after Wike controversially revoked land allocations belonging to some high-profile figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume.
The government appears to be sending a strong message: pay your dues, or lose your rights. While some see this as a much-needed push for accountability, others question whether the process is being applied fairly or selectively.
