The Challenge: Housing affordability is one of the greatest crises facing everyday Lagosians. Despite existing state tenancy laws, tenants are routinely forced to pay 1 to 2 years of rent upfront, alongside excessive agency and legal fees. Without transparent digital systems, citizens lack clear information on their legal rights, leaving them vulnerable to sudden rent spikes and unlawful evictions.
The Proposal: I propose a enforceable Lagos Fair Rent & Tenant Protection Framework focused on transparency and affordability:
Transition to Flexible Rent Payments: Enforce state regulations that require landlords to accept monthly or quarterly rent payments, significantly reducing the financial shock on families and young workers.
Capped Agency Fees: Put an enforceable cap on agency and legal fees (max 10% combined) to eliminate predatory market practices.
Digital Tenant Rights Portal: Launch a simple public portal and WhatsApp hotline managed by the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA). This tool will offer plain-language guides to tenancy laws in English, Pidgin, and Yoruba, verify licensed agents, and allow citizens to report illegal evictions and dispute unfair charges quickly.
The Impact: Housing is a fundamental human need. By combining smart digital tools with practical legal enforcement, Lagos State can protect millions of renters, reduce urban poverty, and build a fair, modern housing market for all residents.
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