Nigeria Cracks Down on Ground Rent Defaulters: Wike Vows to Seal Off Properties

In a move aimed at increasing revenue generation for the state, Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike has announced plans to seal off buildings of individuals and organizations that have defaulted on ground rent payments. This decision is part of a broader effort by the state government to ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations. According to Governor Wike, the state is losing millions of naira in revenue due to the non-payment of ground rents by property owners. The governor has therefore directed the state’s Ministry of Lands and Survey to compile a list of all defaulters and take necessary actions to recover the debts. The move is expected to affect many property owners in the state, including businesses and individuals who have failed to pay their ground rents. The state government has warned that any property found to be in default of ground rent payments will be sealed off until the debts are paid. This decision has been met with mixed reactions from stakeholders, with some hailing it as a necessary measure to boost revenue generation, while others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on businesses and the economy. The Rivers State Government has assured property owners that they will be given ample opportunity to pay their debts before any action is taken. The government has also announced plans to review the current ground rent payment system to make it more efficient and effective. The move is part of a broader effort by the state government to increase revenue generation and reduce dependence on federal allocations. The state government has also announced plans to invest in infrastructure development, including roads, healthcare, and education. The investment is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s economy and improve the standard of living for residents. The decision to seal off buildings of ground rent defaulters has been praised by some as a bold move to address the issue of tax evasion in the state. However, others have expressed concerns about the potential impact on the economy and the welfare of residents. The state government has assured that the move is necessary to ensure the survival and development of the state. The government has also announced plans to provide support to property owners who are struggling to pay their ground rents. The support is expected to include payment plans and other forms of assistance. The move is part of a broader effort by the state government to promote economic growth and development in the state. The state government has also announced plans to partner with private investors to develop infrastructure and promote economic growth. The partnership is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s economy and improve the standard of living for residents. The decision to seal off buildings of ground rent defaulters is a clear indication of the state government’s commitment to ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations. The move is expected to serve as a deterrent to others who may be tempted to default on their tax payments. The state government has assured that it will continue to take necessary actions to ensure that all property owners comply with tax laws and regulations. The government has also announced plans to review the current tax system to make it more efficient and effective. The review is expected to include consultations with stakeholders, including property owners, businesses, and other interested parties. The state government has assured that the review will be transparent and fair, and that the interests of all stakeholders will be taken into account. The decision to seal off buildings of ground rent defaulters is a significant step towards promoting economic growth and development in the state. The move is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s economy and improve the standard of living for residents.

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