The House of Representatives has condemned the arbitrary increase in house rents across Nigeria and called for a cap limiting such increments to no more than 20 percent of the existing rent, regardless of infrastructural upgrades or other considerations.
The resolution followed a motion moved by Hon. Bassey Akiba during Thursday’s plenary session, titled “Need to Regulate Arbitrary Rent Increase and Protect Tenants from Exploitation.”
The House also urged the Federal Government to take urgent steps to curb the rising cost of accommodation and protect tenants from exploitation by landlords.
The lawmakers recalled that in May 2024, the House adopted a motion sponsored by Hon. Emmanuel Udo (PDP–Akwa Ibom), which called for the regulation of rent and landlord activities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
That motion advocated for monthly rent payments and directed the Committee on the FCT to propose policies to address arbitrary rent hikes.
Presenting his motion, Hon. Akiba stressed that housing is universally regarded as the second most essential human need after food.
He noted that safe, affordable accommodation is not only crucial for human survival, but also central to national growth and socio-economic stability.
He cited Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which states that the welfare and security of the people are the primary purpose of government.
He also referenced the United Nations Habitat Agenda, which recognises access to adequate housing as a fundamental human right.
Hon. Akiba expressed concern over widespread reports of rent inflation, especially in communities where new public infrastructure, such as roads, markets, and utilities, has recently been developed. In the FCT alone, he noted, rents in some areas have surged from about N800,000 to as high as N2.5 million per annum.
He warned that such arbitrary increases are imposing severe financial hardship on tenants, threatening family stability and even pushing some people into crime.
He further observed that the current economic realities, marked by inflation and rising living costs, have made it increasingly difficult for individuals, families, and businesses to afford rent.
While acknowledging the rights of property owners, he stressed that tenant welfare must also be protected, urging a balance that promotes fairness and stability in the housing sector.
Following deliberations, the House resolved to:
Urge the Federal Government to prioritise investment in affordable housing projects to ease pressure on the rental market and direct the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to collaborate with state governments to implement rent control policies nationwide and prevent exploitation, especially in areas with new public infrastructure;
Propose a rent cap to ensure that no landlord increases rent by more than 20 percent of the current rate under any circumstances.
The House also mandated the Committee on Housing and Habitat to ensure compliance and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
(Independent)
