I Enjoy Taking on Elites that Flout the Law, Says Wike

In an unapologetic statement, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, declared on Monday that he derives joy from taking on the country’s elite who refuse to comply with the law, particularly when it comes to paying ground rent.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, Wike dismissed concerns about potential backlash from influential individuals and groups, saying that the era of impunity was over and that “something will happen” to those who fail to pay their dues.

The Minister’s comments came as his administration continues to crack down on property owners in Abuja who have failed to pay their ground rent, including the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Wike specifically mentioned that the PDP must pay its outstanding ground rent, and that he would not hesitate to take action against the party or any other defaulters.

Wike also took a swipe at some of his predecessors, including current Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, saying that they lacked the courage to enforce the law against powerful individuals and groups. He claimed that his administration was making progress in the FCT because he was willing to take tough decisions and “step on the toes of big men.”

The Minister’s comments were made in the context of an ongoing effort to recover millions of naira in unpaid ground rent from property owners in Abuja.

The administration has published the names of over 9,000 debtors in newspapers and has begun sealing and taking over properties of those who have failed to pay their dues.

In a dramatic twist, President Bola Tinubu recently granted defaulters a 14-day grace period to settle their outstanding payments and penalties, following the administration’s announcement that it would take possession of over 5,000 properties owing ground rents between 10 and 43 years.

Wike’s tough stance on tax defaulters has sparked debate and controversy, with some hailing him as a champion of accountability and others criticizing him for being overly aggressive.

However, the Minister remains unapologetic, saying that he is committed to doing what is right and that he will not be swayed by criticism or pressure from influential individuals.

As the deadline for payment approaches, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and whether Wike’s administration will succeed in its efforts to recover the outstanding ground rent.

One thing is certain, however: the Minister’s willingness to take on the elite and enforce the law has sent a strong message that impunity will no longer be tolerated in the FCT.