By John Umeh
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has rolled out a sweeping clampdown on land abuse in Abuja, introducing heavy fines and charges for property owners who violate the city’s land-use regulations. The new measures are aimed at restoring order in the capital’s development framework, plugging revenue leakages, and deterring what the minister described as “flagrant disregard for the law.”
Under the directive, title holders and allottees found guilty of contravening the Land Use Act will pay a fine of ₦5 million within 30 days, in addition to a 7.5 percent levy on the Assessed Capital Value (ACV) of any property converted from its original purpose without approval from the FCT Administration (FCTA).
This decision comes after the submission of a comprehensive investigative report by a committee set up earlier in August to examine widespread violations in the city’s premium districts.
The Problem: Abuja’s Rising Wave of Illegal Conversions
Over the past decade, Abuja has witnessed a surge in illegal property conversions, where residential properties are remodeled into commercial centers, hotels, lounges, and event spaces without approval. Likewise, several commercial areas have been converted into private homes, a practice that disrupts urban planning, strains infrastructure, and undermines the city’s original master plan.
According to findings presented by the committee, prime streets such as Ademola Adetokunbo Street, Aminu Kano Crescent, Yakubu Gowon Street, and Gana Street have been the worst hit. Properties originally approved for residential purposes have been transformed into banks, malls, and restaurants, while some commercial plots now host private villas and luxury apartments.
The committee reported that the total capital value of properties involved in such illegal conversions amounts to a staggering ₦1.03 trillion. The report recommended stringent penalties, including sealing of properties, demolition of unauthorized structures, and outright revocation of land titles for defaulters unwilling to comply.
Wike’s Stand: “No One Will Escape Sanctions”
Minister Wike, known for his tough stance on governance and city management, emphasized that the FCT Administration would not hesitate to act against offenders.
“I will not allow anyone to abuse Abuja’s land laws and get away with it,” Wike declared. “If you break the rules, you must pay the penalty. If you don’t want to pay, we’ll revoke your title and auction it. Either way, Abuja will benefit.”
He further explained that the enforcement drive was not just punitive but also strategic, as the funds raised would support critical FCT projects such as road expansion, healthcare facilities, and urban renewal schemes.
“We are in desperate need of revenue to meet infrastructural demands. While some people exploit loopholes, the city suffers. This is the end of that era,” the minister added.
The Breakdown of New Charges
The new framework establishes a two-tier system of penalties for offenders:
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Flat ₦5 Million Fine: Payable within 30 days by allottees/title holders who have breached land-use agreements.
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7.5% Land Conversion Fee: Charged on the total Assessed Capital Value of the illegally converted property. This payment regularizes the change in usage but does not replace the flat fine.
Additionally, in cases where illegal extensions, mergers, or subdivisions have occurred, property owners will also be required to pay 2% of the property’s ACV as a corrective levy.
Failure to comply within the stipulated time frame could lead to:
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Revocation of land titles.
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Sealing or demolition of structures.
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Confiscation and resale of plots by the government.
Stakeholder Reactions: Mixed Emotions Across Abuja
The minister’s pronouncement has sparked varied reactions.
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Urban Planners have welcomed the move, describing it as “long overdue” and critical to preserving Abuja’s master plan.
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Property Developers, however, warn that the policy could trigger legal battles, as many investors argue they were granted informal approvals in the past.
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Residents of affected districts are divided. While some fear that revocations may lead to displacement, others believe the policy will restore sanity and reduce congestion.
An Abuja-based lawyer, Mrs. Tonia Agbese, noted: “Legally, the minister has the backing of the Land Use Act. But the real challenge will be enforcement without sparking litigation that could stall development projects.”
The Bigger Picture: Funding Abuja’s Development
For Wike, the penalties serve a dual purpose: enforcing compliance and mobilizing resources. With Abuja’s infrastructure struggling under rapid urban growth, the FCTA requires billions of naira to keep pace with rising demands.
Road networks in Gwarinpa, Jahi, and Kado are overstretched, while the city’s utilities—water, sewage, and electricity—face increasing pressure due to unplanned property conversions. By channeling funds from fines and levies, the minister believes Abuja can finance its expansion without relying solely on federal allocations.
“This is not about punishment alone. It’s about making Abuja liveable, orderly, and sustainable for the next generation,” Wike stressed.
A Warning to Allottees
With the new measures now in effect, property owners in the FCT are left with two choices—comply and pay the stipulated charges or risk losing their investments entirely.
For Wike, the message is clear: Abuja will no longer be a playground for lawlessness in land matters. As the capital city continues to evolve into a mega-urban hub, adherence to the Land Use Act will define not just property rights but also the future of Nigeria’s administrative center.
