The House of Representatives has mandated its Committee on Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to liaise with the FCT administration (FCTA) to explore and resolve all the issues surrounding the nonissuance of certificates of occupancy to property owners in Abuja, the FCT.
This resolution was sequel to the adoption of a motion by a member, Hon. Sada Soli, at plenary on Tuesday.
The lawmaker stated that the then minister of the Federal Capital Territory, in the year 2000, initiated the Mass Housing Scheme project to provide adequate and affordable housing and bridge the housing gap through a public-private partnership (PPP) policy arrangement.
He expressed concern that property owners within the Mass Housing Scheme Estates have no certificate of occupancy issued to them individually because one common certificate of occupancy is issued in favour of the estate, which negates the principles of tenant-owner protection.
“The Mass Housing Scheme initiated by successive FCT administrations has given rise to the development of smart estates in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), which has boosted the Internal Revenue Generation of the Federal Capital Territory Administration over the years.
“A Certificate of Occupancy is essential for land owners, as it establishes the legitimacy and compliance of the property, verifies its safety and habitability, aids in securing insurance and financing, enhances property value and marketability, and provides protection for both the landlords and tenants,” the lawmaker noted.
Hon. Soli observed that prospective tenants or buyers of such properties and property owners within such estates may end up in potential disputes, liability issues, endless legal complications, and increased risks due to the absence of a Certificate of Occupancy.
Adopting the motion, the House mandated the Committee on FCT to report back within six weeks for further legislative action.
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