The Delta State Ground Rent Task Force has initiated a focused effort to enforce the timely payment of ground rents by property owners in and around Asaba. This step is part of the government’s ongoing mission to ensure that property owners fulfill their legal obligations concerning ground rent payments.
As part of this enforcement action, members of the task force have been visiting properties within Asaba and nearby areas to ensure compliance with ground rent regulations. Among the properties visited were notable establishments, including Aspire Micro Finance Bank, Grand Hotel, Triple A Exclusive Hotel, VAS Filling Station, Lamibelle Event Centre, and Lumen Christi School. Other significant properties inspected included Zenith Bank, Fresh Dew Hotel, and Agofure Motors.
Paul Esejo, who chairs the task force, spoke to the media following these visits. He emphasized the importance of this exercise, stating that it was critical to the economic health of the state. “It is well-known that many people in this region are reluctant to pay taxes unless they are compelled,” he said. “That is why, in January 2014, the state government established a Special Task Force on Ground Rent, with the mandate to ensure that landlords across the state—whether their properties are residential, commercial, or agricultural—pay their ground rent on time.”
He also clarified that the requirement to pay ground rent extends beyond properties on government land, applying to all landowners, including those with private land holdings. Citing the Land Use Act of 1978 (as amended), Esejo pointed out that the state government owns all land within its jurisdiction, giving it the right to collect rent from all landowners. He added that the Delta State Internal Revenue Service Law of 2020 further reinforces the government’s right to collect ground rents from all property owners in the state.
The task force’s activities have been instrumental in boosting the state’s revenue, contributing to the overall economic development. Esejo urged property owners to support the state’s economic agenda by ensuring the timely payment of their ground rents. “Governor Sheriff Oborevwori requires these funds to continue delivering essential services to the people of Delta State. I commend those who have been prompt in fulfilling their tax obligations,” he said.
In addition to Paul Esejo, the task force includes other key members, such as Joseph Okwuokei, Chidi Nwoko, and Phillip Ijeh.