The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, Ireti Kingibe has called for caution in the incessant sealing of properties across Abuja by the operatives of the FCT Administration.

The lawmaker warned that while it is necessary to enforce regulations and tax obligations, there is a need to ensure that the processes take place within the ambit of the law.

Also calling for fairness, considering the current economic realities, Kingibe said ground rent is not grounds for arbitrary takeover of property by the government.

“It is important to clarify that ground rent, a tax charged and collected by state governments on land granted pursuant to the Lands (Title Vesting, etc.) Act of 1975, is not grounds for arbitrary property takeover.

“While the government retains the constitutional power to revoke land for overriding public interest, such revocation must strictly follow due legal process as stipulated under the Land Use Act and the Urban and Regional Planning Act, including the payment of due compensation,” she stated.

In line with the Land Use Act, Kingibe said no property belonging to a citizen can be seized or revoked due to failure to pay ground rent.

“The penalty for such default is, by law, limited to a fine or surcharge, not the compulsory taking over or sealing of the property without recourse to the due process prescribed under Section 42 of the Land Use Act and other relevant provisions,” the Senator noted.

She further stated that the sealing of properties without proper notice and adherence to the provisions of the law only compounds the economic stress experienced by households and business owners.

According to her, such actions could undermine public trust in institutions as well as rub off on the already fragile socio-economic balance within the FCT.

Kingibe that she would not remain silent while FCT residents are subjected to practices that contravene the laws, Kingibe said she is actively engaging with relevant authorities to seek ways to address the issue fairly.

“I urge all residents and business owners to remain calm and law-abiding. Please rest assured that this matter is being addressed with the seriousness it deserves.

“We are committed to ensuring that dialogue, justice, and due process prevail,” Kingibe added.