The Lagos State Government has officially debunked rumors regarding alleged amendments to its Tenancy Law, asserting that the claims circulating online are false. The government emphasized that the existing Tenancy Law of 2015 remains in effect while a new bill is still under consideration in the state assembly.
Key Takeaways
- Lagos State Government denies rumors of a new Tenancy Law.
- The existing Tenancy Law of 2015 is still in effect.
- A new bill is currently under consideration but has not yet been passed.
- Stakeholder engagement is ongoing to discuss housing issues.
Background of the Allegations
Recently, a fabricated online publication claimed that the Lagos State Tenancy Law had been updated to enhance tenant protections and regulate landlord practices. The alleged amendments included provisions that would limit advance rent payments to three months and impose stricter regulations on how landlords could terminate tenancies and increase rents. Additionally, the publication suggested penalties for violations, including fines of up to N100,000 or three months’ imprisonment.
Government’s Response
In response to these claims, Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, issued a statement clarifying the situation. She stated that the publication did not originate from the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) and labeled it as a fabrication intended to mislead the public.
Odunuga-Bakare reassured residents that the Tenancy Law of 2015 is still in force. She also confirmed that while a new Tenancy Bill is being considered by the Lagos State House of Assembly, it has not yet been enacted into law. The government is committed to keeping the public informed about any developments regarding the new legislation.
Ongoing Stakeholder Engagement
The Ministry of Housing is actively engaging with various stakeholders, including real estate practitioners, the Nigerian Bar Association, community development associations, and traditional leaders across the five IBILE divisions of Lagos. These discussions aim to address the culture of monthly rent payments and to foster a clearer understanding of real estate transactions.
The Housing Crisis Context
The clarification from the Lagos State Government comes at a time when the city is grappling with a significant housing crisis. Rising rents, exploitative landlord practices, and a growing housing deficit have exacerbated the situation, particularly as urbanization and population growth continue to surge. The Lagos Assembly has previously called on the government to implement measures to curb excessive rent increases, highlighting the urgent need for effective housing policies.
As the situation evolves, the Lagos State Government has pledged to keep the public updated on any changes to tenancy laws and to ensure that the rights of tenants are adequately protected in the face of ongoing housing challenges.
Sources
- Lagos debunks alleged tenancy law amendment, Punch Newspapers.
- Bill for new tenancy law still with Assembly, not passed yet — Lagos govt, Tribune Online.
- Viral tenancy law amendment is fabricated, says Lagos government, TheCable.
