Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a stern warning to affluent residents and business owners in Abuja, declaring that failure to pay taxes will no longer be tolerated.
Speaking during an official engagement, Wike emphasized that many of the capital’s wealthy residents, particularly those living in upscale districts like Maitama and Asokoro or operating businesses in the Central Business Area, have evaded their tax obligations for too long.
“No poor man lives in Maitama or Asokoro. These are rich men who feel they are untouchable,” Wike said. “But I say no — if you don’t pay your taxes, I will go after you, and heaven will not fall.”
The minister stressed that his leadership role is not ceremonial and that he is prepared to take decisive action to enforce compliance. “They didn’t appoint me for a beauty contest,” he stated. “Leadership is about having the courage to make tough decisions that move us forward.”
Wike’s remarks signal a renewed push by the FCT administration to expand revenue generation through stricter enforcement of tax laws, especially among high-net-worth individuals.