The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to homeowners found guilty of renting out their apartments at inflated rates, announcing plans to impose penalties on offenders.
Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, emphasized the government’s commitment to curbing sharp practices in the rental market, stating that stringent measures would be taken against allottees engaging in such behavior.
In a statement released on Thursday, Akinderu-Fatai revealed that numerous complaints had been received from residents of various state housing schemes regarding the exorbitant rents being charged by homeowners.
He underscored the government’s intention to ensure affordable housing for Lagosians, expressing disappointment at the exploitation of tenants by some homeowners.
“The essence of asking allottees to make a five per cent down payment and spread the remaining amount for ten years was to make life bearable for Lagosians. This is what Mr. Governor wants to achieve, but some people seem to be taking Mr. Governor’s magnanimity for granted. They are renting those apartments out to make money. The question is why do people try to inconvenience others when the government intended to make life bearable for citizens?” Akinderu-Fatai stated.
The commissioner urged facility managers and association members in the estates to report homeowners engaging in such practices to the ministry, warning that offenders would face severe consequences, including the withdrawal of allocation and forfeiture of their apartments with refunds.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing, Engineer Abdulhafis Toriola, highlighted the importance of safeguarding residents’ well-being, particularly in light of reports of homeowners harboring individuals of questionable character.
Toriola assured that the ministry would swiftly investigate such cases and take appropriate action to uphold safety and security within affected estates.
He urged allottees to take responsibility for jointly owned facilities and adhere to established rules to preserve the integrity and livability of the estates.
