Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has identified tax evasion as his greatest challenge in administering Nigeria's capital city, lamenting that many residents want to enjoy infrastructural development without paying their taxes.
Speaking during a project inspection tour in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike expressed frustration over the widespread reluctance to fulfill tax obligations while expecting improved facilities and infrastructure.
"The challenges of people refusing to pay their taxes. People want facilities and infrastructure, but nobody wants to pay taxes," Wike stated.
The minister further revealed plans by the Federal Capital Territory Administration to increase ground rent in the coming days, noting that President Tinubu has provided a two-week window for implementation.
"We have not increased the ground rent, but we are working toward that. We will do that. The president has given a window of two weeks," he added.
Enforcement Actions Already Underway
The FCT administration has already begun taking action against defaulters. Recently, the FCTA sealed the National Secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other offices over non-payment of ground rent accumulated over several years.
This enforcement action sparked controversy, particularly given Wike's history as a prominent PDP member before his ministerial appointment in the All Progressives Congress-led federal government.
The minister's comments come amid growing tension between his administration and property owners in the FCT, with some critics accusing him of using tax enforcement as a political tool. However, Wike has consistently maintained that his actions are aimed at ensuring compliance with existing regulations and generating necessary revenue for the development of the capital city.
As the FCT administration prepares to implement the ground rent increase, residents and property owners in Abuja are advised to settle outstanding payments to avoid enforcement measures including property sealing and potential legal action.
