Key Points

• Proposed Lagos tenancy law will protect tenants from exploitation.

• Bill seeks to cap arbitrary rent hikes across the city.

• Government to balance landlord rights with stronger tenant protections.

Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, the Commissioner for Housing in Lagos State, claims that the proposed tenancy law will provide strong protections for tenants without compromising the rights of landlords.

According to a report by Vanguard news, the legislation, which is still in the draft stage, aims to address growing concerns about arbitrary rent increases, exploitative tenancy agreements, and unlawful evictions, Akinderu-Fatai said Thursday at a housing stakeholders’ forum in Ikeja.

In the most populated city in Africa, he gave residents his word that the new legal system would fairly balance the interests of property owners and renters.

He declared, “We are dedicated to building a housing system where both landlords and tenants feel secure.” “The proposed tenancy law will prevent exploitation, guarantee predictable rental terms, and offer a framework for resolving disputes without needless hardship.”

Protecting tenants while balancing the rights of landlords

The Commissioner pointed out that although the state is dedicated to safeguarding tenants, landlords’ rights to just compensation for their capital will not be compromised.

He emphasized that before the bill is presented to the State House of Assembly, the government is closely collaborating with legal professionals, real estate developers, and tenant associations to refine it.

According to Akinderu-Fatai, the proposed law will also clearly define notice periods for termination and rent payment schedules, allowing both parties to make better plans. He stated, “This is not about picking sides.” “The goal is to establish a stable housing market that protects residents and attracts investment.”

Resolving Lagos’ capricious rent hikes

Rapid urbanization, a shortage of available housing, and rent increases brought on by inflation have presented Lagos tenants with increasing difficulties in recent years.

By imposing caps based on market indices and inflation, the new tenancy law aims to prevent capricious increases.

According to the Commissioner, these actions are required to stop the spread of unofficial rental practices that have put many locals in danger.

In order to boost the supply of reasonably priced homes and lessen the strain on the rental market, he continued, the government is also growing public-private housing partnerships.

Increasing the availability of housing justice

According to Akinderu-Fatai, the bill would create quicker, less expensive dispute resolution procedures and enhance the capabilities of the current rent tribunals.

He stated, “We want cases that used to drag on for months or years to be resolved in weeks.”

When disagreements emerge, he urged tenants to record their agreements and file complaints via the proper channels. He said, “Our message is clear: we are creating a housing system that benefits everyone.”