The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has called on the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, to adopt a more balanced approach to revenue collection in the nation’s capital.
This is contained in a statement released on Monday and signed by Alhassan Yahya Abdullahi,
National President of the NUJ.
According to the NUJ, “while we appreciate the visible infrastructural development and IGR initiatives in Abuja, we are concerned that the current approach to revenue collection, particularly ground rent payments and property forfeiture, may undermine the well-being of FCT residents.”
The union’s concerns were expressed concerne for the imposition of substantial financial burdens, without due consideration for the severe hardships faced by ordinary citizens, saying the action risks exacerbating the economic challenges faced by residents.
The NUJ emphasized the need for empathy and humanity in governance, stating that “development in the FCT should be pursued with humanity, empathy, and an unwavering adherence to democratic tenets and the rights of citizens.”
The union also raised concerns about the sealing of hotels and businesses, warning that such actions “could inadvertently deter visitors, lead to business closures, and job losses, ultimately placing further pressure on the local economy and government.”
To mitigate these risks, the NUJ urged the FCT Administration to “ensure that all administrative powers, including ground rent enforcement, are exercised in a manner that fully respects due process and established legal frameworks.”
In the words of the NUJ, “maintaining the rule of law is fundamental to attracting and retaining both local and international confidence.”
The union respectfully cautioned against any actions that might project a negative image of Nigeria internationally, emphasizing that “upholding human rights and the rule of law are cornerstones of a democratic state.”
