Wike: “I Enjoy Stepping on Elite Toes” Over Ground Rent Crackdown

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Monday dismissed concerns of backlash from some elite Nigerians over his strict enforcement of ground rent payments, saying he takes satisfaction in challenging influential individuals who think they are above the law.

Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, Wike criticized certain elites who travel abroad, witness how modern societies operate, yet return to Nigeria refusing to adhere to basic laws.

“The era of impunity—where some elites believe they can break laws without consequences—is over,” Wike declared firmly. “Something will happen.”

He emphasized that enforcing the law is non-negotiable, regardless of a person’s status, signaling a no-nonsense approach to governance in the FCT.