Wike, Envoys in Diplomatic Row as FG Moves to Recover ₦3.6bn Ground Rent
Wike, Envoys in Diplomatic Row as FG Moves to Recover ₦3.6bn Ground Rent
The Federal Government has intensified diplomatic efforts to resolve a ₦3.6 billion ground rent debt involving 34 foreign embassies in Abuja. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has directed the FCTA to recover the outstanding sums, some of which date back to 2014. FCT Director of Land, Chijioke Nwankwoeze, confirmed that enforcement actions, including possible property sealing, are being considered should the debts remain unpaid.
Responding to public concern, Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, assured that the issue will be addressed diplomatically in coordination with the FCTA. Meanwhile, Lere Olayinka, spokesman for the FCT Minister, stated that embassies disputing their debt status—such as Russia and Germany—will be subject to investigation before further action is taken. The government aims to balance revenue recovery with respect for diplomatic conventions.
Former Nigerian Ambassador to Mexico, Ogbole Amedu‑Ode, weighed in, cautioning that any enforcement must align with the Vienna Convention, which protects the inviolability of diplomatic missions. As the deadline for compliance draws near, the situation underscores the tension between fiscal responsibility and diplomatic protocol in the capital.
