The Lagos State House of Assembly took a significant step on Thursday towards overhauling the state's tenancy laws, as a new bill aimed at regulating the often-contentious relationship between landlords and tenants passed its second reading.
The proposed legislation, titled ‘A Bill for a Law to Regulate the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in Lagos State,’ seeks to create a comprehensive legal framework addressing everything from rent payment structures and tenants' rights to the proper procedures for the recovery of premises.
During a detailed plenary session, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa emphasized the bill's goal of bringing clarity and fairness to the rental market. He highlighted the dual pressures facing Lagos residents: tenants who often depend on end-of-year bonuses to afford hefty annual rent demands, and landlords who are grappling with the soaring cost of building materials and rely on rental income.
"This law is long overdue and will modernise housing relationships in Lagos," declared Hon. Femi Saheed, the representative for Kosofe II.
Key provisions and objectives discussed by the lawmakers include a clear definition of roles and flexible rent structures. They also include standardized procedures for eviction and property recovery, as well as measures to curb agent-related conflicts.
Hon. Aro Moshood of Ikorodu II described the bill as "timely and people-centred," but called for the inclusion of a dedicated enforcement body. He argued such a body is necessary to checkmate landlords who impose arbitrary rent hikes beyond what is legally permissible.
Following robust debate, the Speaker referred the bill to the House Committee on Housing for further legislative review. The committee has been given a three-week deadline to present its report to the Assembly.
