The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the Federal Government of a “brazen abuse of power” after the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) sealed its national secretariat in Abuja over non-payment of ground rent fees spanning 28 years.
The FCTA enforcement was part of a broader campaign to recover long-outstanding dues from property owners in the capital city, as authorities move to sanitize land administration and boost revenue.
PDP Cries Foul, Vows Resistance
Reacting to the action, PDP leaders decried the move as politically motivated and claimed it was a deliberate attempt by the ruling party to intimidate and harass the opposition. “This is nothing short of persecution. We are ready to be arrested if the harassment continues,” a top PDP official said on condition of anonymity.
“You can’t single out the main opposition party and act like it’s not politically targeted. We will resist this intimidation.”
The PDP further argued that while they acknowledged the obligation to settle legitimate government fees, the manner and timing of the enforcement raised questions about political neutrality.
Tinubu Intervenes with 14-Day Grace Period
In a surprise move, President Bola Tinubu intervened in the escalating standoff, directing the FCTA to grant the PDP — and other affected property owners — a 14-day grace period to regularize their documentation and clear outstanding payments. The presidential directive is seen as a conciliatory gesture, aimed at diffusing political tension while still emphasizing the need for fiscal compliance.
Background: FCTA’s Crackdown on Ground Rent Defaulters
The FCTA’s decision to seal properties, including the PDP national secretariat, stems from a broader initiative to recover billions of naira in unpaid ground rents. The administration has stated that several high-profile individuals, corporations, and political parties are among those with decades of unpaid land use charges.
A spokesperson for the FCTA explained: “No one is above the law. We’ve given numerous notices over the years. The recent action is a last resort.”
