The Lagos State House of Assembly has taken a significant step toward improving housing relations in the state, as the proposed Lagos State Tenancy Bill passed its second reading during a recent plenary session.
The bill, officially titled “A Bill for a Law to Regulate the Relationship between Landlords and Tenants in Lagos State Including the Procedure for the Recovery of Premises and for Connected Purposes,” aims to overhaul and redefine the legal framework that governs landlord-tenant interactions in the state.
It seeks to clarify the rights and responsibilities of landlords, tenants, and agents, while also providing clear procedures for rent payments, evictions, and conflict resolution.
Presenting the rationale behind the bill, Hon. Sa’ad Olumoh explained that the proposed legislation would bring much-needed clarity and order to tenancy agreements.
He emphasized that the bill outlines key aspects of tenancy such as acceptable rent structures—monthly and annual options—and provides transparent procedures for issuing eviction notices.
He further highlighted that the law defines the roles and expectations of all parties involved in rental agreements, including agents, landlords, and tenants.
This clarity, according to Olumoh, would help streamline dispute resolution by offering legal guidance to the courts.
Lending his voice in support of the bill, Hon. Aro Moshood praised it as timely and people-focused. He advocated for the establishment of a dedicated enforcement agency to prevent landlords from imposing arbitrary and illegal rent hikes, which often place undue financial strain on tenants.
According to him, the proposed law would significantly ease the pressure on tenants, allowing them to better plan their finances.
Echoing similar sentiments, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe described the bill as inclusive and comprehensive. He pointed out that it covers every stage of the tenancy process—from hiring of agents, to payment terms, and resolution of disputes—thereby creating a balanced and fair housing system.
Also contributing, Hon. Femi Saheed expressed optimism that the legislation would modernize housing relations in Lagos.
He stressed that the bill not only protects tenant rights but also respects landlords’ legal entitlements, including matters related to tenement rates, land use charges, and other levies. Saheed maintained that the law is long overdue and a step in the right direction for sustainable housing policy.
Hon. Ajayi Oladele welcomed the bill’s potential to reduce the frequent friction caused by estate agents. He noted that, for the first time, the bill will ensure that all involved parties clearly understand their legal standings and responsibilities.
Hon. Omolara Olumegbon commended the bill for prioritizing equity and fairness. She stated that it adequately addresses timelines for rent payments—whether monthly or yearly—and ties eviction procedures directly to those schedules, thereby protecting tenants from sudden displacement.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, called for a balanced approach that considers the realities of both landlords and tenants.
He urged his colleagues to remember that many tenants are only able to make lump sum rent payments after receiving end-of-year bonuses or annual leave allowances.
At the same time, Speaker Obasa acknowledged the rising cost of building materials and the dependence of many landlords on rental income.
He emphasized the need for the state government to revisit and fulfill its commitments on affordable housing delivery as a way of easing pressure on both tenants and landlords.
Following extensive deliberation, the bill was forwarded to the House Committee on Housing for further scrutiny and refinement. The committee is expected to conduct detailed reviews and report back to the House within three weeks.
If enacted, the law is expected to modernize tenancy laws in Lagos, foster mutual respect between landlords and tenants, and strengthen the mechanisms for dispute resolution and rent regulation in the state.