Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has identified the widespread refusal to pay taxes as the most significant challenge confronting the administration, even as residents continue to demand improved infrastructure and public services.
Wike voiced his concern over the prevailing attitude of many Abuja residents and property owners, who fail to fulfil their financial obligations—particularly on ground rent, Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O), and deeds of assignment—while expecting the government to deliver top-tier amenities.
“We are not an oil-producing state,” Wike stated. “We rely solely on internally generated revenue, especially taxes, to provide infrastructure. These are not new taxes; they’ve existed for years.”
The Minister decried the double standards among the elite, whom he accused of willingly complying with tax laws abroad but disregarding them in Nigeria due to weak enforcement.
“It’s unfortunate. Many elites own properties overseas and understand the consequences of tax evasion there—those properties could be seized. But when it comes to their own country, they refuse to comply because they believe there are no sanctions,” he said.
He reiterated the administration’s resolve to tackle the challenge head-on, assuring that non-compliance would no longer be tolerated.
“My greatest challenge is people refusing to pay their dues. We all want development, but no one asks how it will be funded. If residents pay their taxes, the difference will be clear. We’ve prudently managed what we have, but more can be done with greater cooperation,” he added.
“Some people owe ground rent for 20 to 30 years. And how much is it? We haven’t even increased it yet. But we are working towards that, and we will do it,” he said.
Wike referenced the recent sealing of properties belonging to public institutions, private organisations, and individuals due to unpaid ground rent. The action followed the expiration of a grace period, which was later extended by two weeks following the intervention of President Bola Tinubu.
Highlighting his efforts, the Minister revealed that over the course of two weeks, he signed more than 1,500 Certificates of Occupancy and deeds, emphasising that those who benefit from these services must also fulfil their tax obligations.
“It is not acceptable to receive your C-of-O and then refuse to pay taxes. That era is over,” he asserted.
On a different note, the Minister dispelled rumours of a suicide bomb incident in the FCT, clarifying that there was no such threat.
“There was no suicide bomber. Security agents never made such a claim. What happened was that someone went to a quarry, picked up explosives, and kept them in his pocket. The device exploded on him. It was an isolated incident, not a security threat,” he explained.
Wike cautioned the media to avoid sensationalism and ensure accurate reporting, particularly on security matters, to prevent unnecessary panic among residents.
“We should engage in investigative journalism, not fear-mongering,” he advised.
