The Lagos State House of Assembly has taken a major step toward redefining landlord-tenant relations with the advancement of a new tenancy bill aimed at regulating rent agreements, eviction procedures, and the roles of agents across the state.
The bill, titled “A Bill for a Law to Regulate the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in Lagos State,” passed its second reading during Thursday’s plenary session.
Naijaonpoint reports that the Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa, who presided over the session, said the bill seeks to create a modern legal framework that protects both landlords and tenants while fostering harmony and fairness in residential dealings.
“We must think of tenants who depend on their end-of-year bonuses or annual leave allowances to pay rent.
“At the same time, we must acknowledge that landlords are struggling with rising building costs and depend on rental income to survive,” Obasa said.
The proposed law outlines procedures for recovering premises, eviction notices, and defines the rights and responsibilities of landlords, tenants, and estate agents.
According to Obasa, the new law will “make it easier for all parties involved in tenancy to understand their roles,” while also ensuring faster resolution of disputes in court.
He noted that the state government must also evaluate its housing promises to provide more affordable options for Lagosians.
The Speaker referred the bill to the House Committee on Housing, which is expected to return with its report in three weeks.
Lawmakers’ Position On Lagos Tenancy Bill
Contributing to the debate, Sa’ad Olumoh (Ajeromi-Ifelodun I) said the bill was crucial for restoring order in tenancy matters.
“It clearly defines whether rent should be monthly or annually and outlines the eviction process,” Olumoh said. “It gives courts the legal backing to settle landlord-tenant disputes fairly.”
Aro Moshood (Ikorodu II) called for the creation of an enforcement body within the law to prevent arbitrary rent increases.
“Tenants will now be able to plan their finances properly without undue pressure,” Moshood said.
On his part, Stephen Ogundipe (Oshodi-Isolo I) praised the bill’s comprehensive nature, saying it addressed issues ranging from rent agreements to agent misconduct and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Femi Saheed (Kosofe II) described the legislation as a “welcome development,” especially for clarifying the rights of landlords on issues such as tenement rates and land use charges, while protecting tenants from exploitation.
“This law is long overdue. It will modernise and sanitise tenancy relationships in Lagos,” he said.
Ajayi Oladele (Ibeju-Lekki II) highlighted the bill’s role in curbing agent-induced disputes.
“For the first time, everyone will know where they stand legally. It’s a game-changer,” Oladele stated.
Omolara Olumegbon (Lagos-Island I) commended the bill for promoting fairness in rental timelines and aligning them with proper eviction procedures.
“Whether rent is paid monthly or yearly, tenants and landlords now have a clear understanding of what the law says,” she noted.
Naijaonpoint reports that the bill, once passed into law, is expected to overhaul the tenancy landscape in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre, where housing disputes have become increasingly common.