Landlords were criticized for ignoring tenants’ financial difficulties and carrying out illegal evictions, even though they are aware that minimum-wage earners struggle to afford basic housing
Lagos Assembly Set to Curb Arbitrary Rent Hikes with Tenancy Law Enforcement
In a decisive move to protect tenants, the Lagos State House of Assembly has urged the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice to rigorously enforce the 2015 Tenancy Law to curb rampant and illegal rent increases by landlords.
The resolution, passed during a plenary session on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, responds to growing concerns over unaffordable housing in the state.
The motion, introduced by Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh, highlighted Section 37 of the Tenancy Law, which bans unreasonable rent hikes and empowers tenants to seek legal recourse. Olumoh warned that unchecked increases are exacerbating homelessness in Lagos.
Supporting the motion, Hon. Desmond Elliot cited 100-200% rent spikes in Surulere I, calling for a review of two-year tenancy terms and excessive agency fees.
Hon. Aro Moshood criticized landlords for ignoring tenants’ financial struggles and conducting unlawful evictions, noting that minimum-wage earners can barely afford basic housing. Hon. Shabi Adebola advocated for more low-cost housing to support vulnerable residents.
Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Obasa emphasized the need for broader solutions, including addressing rising building material costs.
He directed the House Committee on Housing, led by Hon. Ege Olusegun, to engage stakeholders and agencies to devise lasting solutions. The Assembly also tasked the Commissioner for Information and Strategy with raising public awareness about the Tenancy Law’s protections.
In a separate development, the House passed the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy bill for the third time, with Speaker Obasa instructing the Acting Clerk, Mr. Abubakar Ottun, to forward it to the governor for assent. This dual action underscores the Assembly’s commitment to addressing both housing and leadership development in Lagos. Read More
