Lawmakers in Lagos have issued a strong call for the immediate enforcement of the Lagos State Tenancy Law of 2015, highlighting growing concern over widespread rent hikes that continue to deepen the housing crisis across the state. The Lagos State House of Assembly directed this appeal to the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, asking that full legal weight be used to curb what they describe as unreasonable rent increases by landlords.
Their call came during a sitting where Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh presented a motion emphasizing the urgent need to protect tenants from exploitative practices. He pointed to Section 37 of the Tenancy Law, which prohibits arbitrary rent increases and offers legal support for tenants affected by such actions. According to Olumoh, unchecked rent inflation is contributing to a sharp rise in homelessness, with more Lagosians unable to secure shelter due to unaffordable rates.
Backing the motion, Hon. Desmond Elliot of Surulere 1 constituency revealed that rent in some areas has surged by 100 to 200 percent. While acknowledging that infrastructure development plays a role in increasing demand, Elliot warned that it should not be used as a justification for imposing exorbitant rent. He also called for a review of the law, especially the provision that forces tenants to pay two years’ rent upfront in addition to commissions and legal fees—costs many find unbearable.
Hon. Aro Moshood criticized landlords who raise rents without considering tenants’ income or serving proper notice, both of which violate the Tenancy Law. He described illegal evictions as another major problem, saying many tenants are being forced out of their homes without following due legal process. Moshood expressed deep concern that even residents earning the minimum wage can no longer afford to rent a single room in the state.
Hon. Shabi Adebola also contributed to the debate, urging the state government to step in with practical solutions, including the development of more affordable housing for low-income earners.
In his final remarks, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, noting that the housing challenge is not just about rent but also the soaring cost of building materials. He recommended dialogue with real estate stakeholders as a way to find long-term solutions that work for both tenants and landlords.
The Speaker instructed the Acting Clerk, Mr. Abubakar Ottun, to forward the House’s resolution to the Governor, with the expectation that swift action would follow.
