The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) On Monday, May 26, 2025, has intensified its enforcement actions against property owners with longstanding ground rent arrears by sealing several high-profile establishments in Abuja.
Among the affected properties were an Access Bank branch and a Total petrol station located in Zone 6, Wuse. Additionally, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) office in Abuja was shut down for similar violations.
According to official records, the property housing the Access Bank branch is officially allocated to Rana Tahir Furniture Nigeria Limited, not directly to the bank. A letter dated March 13, 2025, signed by the Director of Land Administration, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, stated that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, exercising powers under the Land Use Act No. 6 of 1978, revoked the rights over Plot No. 2456 within Wuse I, Cadastral Zone A02, Abuja, due to continued default in ground rent payment spanning 34 years.
These closures are part of a broader enforcement campaign by the FCTA targeting defaulting property owners across the Federal Capital Territory. Officials have indicated that several notices and publications have been issued since 2023, warning allottees to clear outstanding ground rent obligations. Despite these warnings, compliance has been minimal, prompting the administration to take decisive action.
The FCTA’s recent actions underscore its commitment to enforcing land use regulations and ensuring that property owners fulfill their financial obligations to the government. By sealing properties with significant ground rent arrears, the administration aims to recover owed revenues and uphold the integrity of land administration in the Federal Capital Territory.
