The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has issued a strict three-month ultimatum to property owners in the Federal Capital City (FCC) to either develop their undeveloped plots and unfinished buildings or face serious consequences, including possible demolition.
The warning came through an official document signed by Felix Obuah, the Coordinator of the Abuja Municipal Management Council (AMMC). This statement was made public on Monday, October 21st, 2024, and immediately grabbed attention due to the urgency of the matter.
The FCTA stressed that the increasing number of undeveloped properties and abandoned buildings is contributing to a rise in illegal structures and shanty towns in Abuja. These areas are becoming a concern because they are often used as hideouts by individuals involved in criminal activities, putting the safety of the city’s residents at risk.
The administration is particularly concerned about the growing security threats posed by these neglected spaces. According to Obuah, these undeveloped properties have become safe havens for “men of questionable character” who take advantage of these unmonitored spaces to engage in illegal activities.
He added that allowing such structures to remain in a state of disrepair is not only irresponsible but dangerous to the community.
“The FCT Administration has noted with concern the rapid expansion of shanties and squatters within uncompleted buildings and undeveloped plots across the Federal Capital City. The Administration has also observed that these buildings and plots are being used as hideouts by men of questionable character, thereby posing a serious security challenge to residents,” Obuah said in the official statement.
As a result, property owners who have failed to develop their plots or complete their buildings are now facing a firm directive to act. The FCTA has given them three months from the date of the notice to begin work on their properties.
Failure to comply with this directive will lead to harsh consequences, which may include the outright revocation of their land titles and the demolition of any unfinished or abandoned structures.
“In view of the foregoing, all owners of these abandoned and uncompleted buildings, as well as undeveloped plots, are hereby directed to immediately develop and secure the properties within three months from the date of this announcement,” the statement further read.
