The Lagos State House of Assembly has issued a strong call for the rigorous enforcement of the Tenancy Law of Lagos State 2015, in a bid to tackle the escalating rent crisis that is pushing many residents into homelessness. The assembly’s demand comes amidst growing concerns over exorbitant rent increases, with some areas reporting spikes of up to 200%.
Key Demands and Legislative Action:
At the forefront of this initiative is a motion moved by Lukmoh Olumoh (Ajeromi-Ifelodun 1), who highlighted the urgent need to address unreasonable rent hikes. “Section 37 of the Tenancy Law explicitly prohibits these excessive increments, yet they persist, contributing to the alarming rise in homelessness,” Olumoh stated. The House has specifically directed the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to ensure the full implementation of the law.
Furthermore, the assembly has called upon the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, to launch intensive public awareness campaigns. The goal is to educate residents on their rights and the legal provisions designed to protect them from exploitation.
Real-World Impact and Resident Concerns:
Desmond Elliot (Surulere 1) provided a stark illustration of the crisis, revealing that rents in his constituency have soared dramatically. “Infrastructural development should not be a pretext for arbitrary rent increases,” Elliot argued, citing instances where rents doubled or tripled. He also called for a review of the law’s provision that mandates two years’ rent upfront, along with commissions and legal fees, which he deems unsustainable for many residents.
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Aro Moshood (Ikorodu 2) echoed these concerns, condemning landlords who impose new rent figures without considering tenants’ income or providing adequate notice, as required by law. He also condemned the illegal evictions, which bypass legal procedures. I understand that the need for stable housing is a basic human right, and the current situation in Lagos is deeply troubling.
Government Response and Future Solutions:
Shabi Adebola (Mainland 1) urged the state government to address the root cause of the crisis by providing more low-cost housing options for the less privileged. However, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa emphasized the complexity of the issue, noting that it extends beyond rent to the rising costs of building materials. He advocated for dialogue with real estate stakeholders to find sustainable solutions.
“This is a sensitive issue that requires a comprehensive approach,” Obasa stated. He has directed the Acting Clerk, Abubakar Ottun, to forward a clean copy of the resolution to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for assent, signaling a potential shift towards stricter enforcement and policy reforms.
Looking Ahead:
The Lagos State House of Assembly’s proactive stance reflects a growing recognition of the urgent need to address the housing crisis. The enforcement of the Tenancy Law, coupled with public awareness campaigns and the potential for policy reviews, could provide much-needed relief for residents grappling with soaring rent costs. The effectiveness of these measures will depend on the government’s commitment to implementation and its ability to engage with all stakeholders in the real estate sector.
