Lagos Assembly Moves to Reshape Tenancy Law Amid Rising Rent Crisis
The Lagos State House of Assembly has advanced efforts to address the increasing tension between landlords and tenants with the second reading of a revised Tenancy Bill on Thursday, amid growing public concern over escalating rent prices in the state.
The bill, titled ‘A Bill for a Law to Regulate the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in Lagos State’, seeks to establish a modern legal framework that defines the rights, responsibilities, and eviction procedures applicable to all parties involved in tenancy agreements.
Presiding over the plenary session, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, emphasized the bill’s importance in guiding landlord-tenant relations and legal expectations across the state.
“The bill covers procedures for recovering premises and related matters across the state,” Mr Obasa said. “If passed, the law would ensure that landlords, tenants, and agents fully understand their rights and responsibilities.”
He further urged his colleagues to be mindful of the economic realities facing tenants, many of whom rely on year-end bonuses and annual leave allowances to meet their rent obligations. Mr Obasa also pointed out that while landlords rely on rental income, the government must revisit and deliver on its housing promises.
Following extensive deliberation, the Speaker referred the bill to the House Committee on Housing for further scrutiny and directed the committee to report back in three weeks.
Several lawmakers spoke in strong support of the bill, praising its timing and potential impact.
Sa’ad Olumoh (Ajeromi-Ifelodun I) described it as a crucial legislation that would bring order to tenancy matters. “It promotes harmony by clearly defining rent structures — annual or monthly — and eviction notice procedures,” he said. He added that it would also serve as a legal guide for the courts in resolving tenancy-related disputes.
Aro Moshood (Ikorodu II) called for the establishment of an enforcement body within the law to curb arbitrary rent increases. “The bill will relieve tenants and help them plan their finances without unnecessary strain,” he said.
Stephen Ogundipe (Oshodi-Isolo I) commended the bill for its inclusive nature, noting that it addresses everything from agent conduct to rent agreements and dispute resolution.
Femi Saheed (Kosofe II) described it as a “welcome development,” adding that it clearly outlines landlord rights concerning levies such as tenement rates and land use charges. “It also affirms tenants’ rights and reinforces the authority of the courts in handling tenancy disputes,” he said. “This law is long overdue and will modernise housing relationships in Lagos.”
Ajayi Oladele (Ibeju-Lekki II) emphasized the bill’s potential to reduce conflicts often triggered by estate agents. “For the first time, everyone will understand their legal standing clearly,” he noted.
Omolara Olumegbon (Lagos-Island I) praised the bill’s fairness, particularly in how it addresses payment timelines — whether monthly or yearly — and their implications on eviction processes.
The proposed legislation marks a significant step in the Lagos State government’s efforts to create a balanced and legally sound rental housing environment.
(NAN)
