FCTA issued final warning to all landowners in Abuja’s Maitama District, demanding settlement of outstanding balances for their C-of-O within two weeks.

By Divine Sam

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued a final warning to all landowners in Abuja’s Maitama District, demanding that they settle their outstanding balances for their Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) within two weeks. Failure to make the required payments will result in the revocation of their Right of Occupancy (R-of-O) titles. This ultimatum applies to all titleholders, regardless of who owns the property.

The notice, published on Thursday, emphasizes that all those with unpaid C-of-O bills must act promptly to avoid losing their land. The FCTA has made it clear that owners who do not settle their accounts by the deadline will face the withdrawal of their titles. A comprehensive list of landowners affected by the ultimatum can be accessed through the provided link.

The FCTA’s actions align with recent moves by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who previously ordered the revocation of 762 land plots due to non-payment of C-of-O fees. This followed an earlier revocation in August 2023, when 165 plots were revoked because the owners failed to develop them. Wike has stated that his administration will continue to enforce these reforms, even if they are unpopular, emphasizing that the aim is to serve the public good.

Under the FCTA’s policy, individual landowners are required to pay N5 million for their C-of-O. They are granted a four-month grace period to clear their dues. The legal framework for the FCTA’s actions is based on Section 28 of the Land Use Act, which allows for the revocation of property rights in cases such as a breach of contract or non-compliance with the terms stipulated in the certificate of occupancy.

These actions are part of broader reforms aimed at improving land administration and ensuring that land is used efficiently for the benefit of the public.