Wike Vows To Tackle Rich Tax Defaulters

Mr. Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has stated that there is currently no reprieve for tax defaulters in Abuja and has stated that he is prepared to not back off of anyone who refuses to pay taxes to the government, regardless of their status.

He said he will touch rich tax defaulters, and heaven won’t fall.

On Monday, May 26, 2025, the Federal Capital Territory Administration task force sealed many premises, including the national headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party in Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, over non-payment of ground rent.

The action sparked outrage within the PDP, with its acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, labelling it an act of irresponsibility by the Federal Government.

Wike, who said those considered as the ‘untouchables’ in Abuja would not be spared as long as they choose to go against the law, spoke on the campus of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, on Thursday while delivering the 2025 Distinguished Personality Lecture of the institution.

Speaking on the topic: ‘Nigeria of our dreams’, the ex-Rivers State Governor said leadership requires courage to take decisions that would engender development without fear.

“Leadership is not about you liking someone, it is about you being courageous to make a decision that will help us to move forward.

“I am not the first Minister of FCT, no poor man lives in Maitama, Asokoro, all are rich men. No poor man does business in Central Business Area. They say they are untouchable, I say No!

“I will touch you, if the right thing is not done. That is leadership, they didn’t appoint me as minister for a beauty contest. Mention one poor man who has a house in Maitama, all are rich men, they don’t want to pay tax, you will pay it. You will pay, if you don’t pay, I will touch you and heaven will not fall, but rather be at peace,” Wike said.

Touching on how poor quality leadership has slowed down the progress of the country, Wike said Nigeria as at different times, ended up with leaders who were not prepared for leadership positions.

He added, “Indeed, some of these leaders were ab initio, even reluctant to take on the mantle of leadership. Accordingly, Nigeria has substantially been infested with leaders without preparation, knowledge, courage, patriotism and character.