The Kogi state House of Assembly Thursday commenced the process of overhauling the state’s tenancy laws while holding a public hearing on a bill aimed at protecting tenants from arbitrary rent increases, unlawful evictions and exploitation by landlords and property agents.
The proposed legislation seeks to repeal the Rent Control and Recovery of Residential Premises Law, 2007, and replace it with a new Kogi State Tenancy Law, 2027, designed to reflect current economic realities and strengthen the rights and responsibilities of landlords, tenants and property agents.
Sponsored by the member representing Ankpa 1 State Constituency, Hon. Lawal Akus, the bill comes amid growing complaints over rising house rents and excessive agency charges across the state, worsened by prevailing economic hardship.
Speaking at the hearing ,Hon. Akus said the bill is intended to establish a fair, transparent and balanced legal framework for tenancy relationships, addressing issues such as arbitrary rent hikes, unlawful evictions, excessive agent fees, prolonged disputes and delays in justice delivery.
He noted that while landlords are entitled to returns on their investments, tenants must be protected from exploitation, adding that the legislation would clearly define obligations, regulate tenancy agreements, prohibit harassment and provide effective dispute resolution mechanisms.
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