The Lagos State Government has taken a significant step toward reforming its rental housing sector by forwarding the “Lagos State Tenancy and Recovery of Premises Bill, 2025” to the House of Assembly. This proposed Executive Bill seeks to address widespread complaints from residents over exorbitant rent increases, some reportedly as high as 200 per cent, while also clarifying the often-ambiguous responsibilities between landlords and tenants.

The legislation is a direct response to persistent grievances, including allegations of unlawful evictions in which tenants have been locked out of their homes, had doors forcibly removed, or faced intimidation during rent disputes. A cornerstone of the proposed law is the mandatory requirement for landlords to obtain a valid court order before evicting any tenant, introducing a crucial legal safeguard for tenancy relationships across Lagos State.

The Bill expressly prohibits all forms of forceful eviction, harassment, and self-help measures, including the use of threats or hired individuals to reclaim premises. Landlords who intentionally disconnect electricity or water supplies, remove roofing materials, or engage in any action that interferes with a tenant’s lawful occupation of a property will face legal prosecution. Furthermore, Section 10 of the Bill guarantees a tenant’s right to quiet and peaceful enjoyment of their rented premises, protecting tenants from any act that undermines this fundamental right.

To ensure compliance and deter abuse, the Bill prescribes stringent sanctions for offenders. Section 43 stipulates that any landlord who attempts to evict a tenant without a court order, alters a building to compel eviction, threatens or harasses a tenant, or causes damage to property commits a criminal offence. Upon conviction, such offenders face a fine of not less than ₦1 million, a prison term of up to six months, or both.

Beyond eviction reforms, the proposed legislation also seeks to curb arbitrary rent increases. Section 33 empowers the courts to assess the fairness of rent adjustments, taking into account prevailing rental rates in comparable locations, submissions from both landlords and tenants, as well as the specific features and amenities of the property concerned.

In a move to ensure faster resolution of tenancy disputes, the Bill introduces expedited judicial processes. Sections 20 to 24 provide that tenancy matters may commence through originating summons, with hearings required to begin within 14 days. Courts will also be empowered to sit on weekends or public holidays, conduct virtual proceedings, and limit mediation processes to a maximum of 30 days, all aimed at accelerating dispute resolution.

Additionally, the Bill strengthens oversight of service charges and security deposits. Landlords will be legally required to provide tenants with a detailed breakdown of service charge expenditures every six months. Security deposits must be fully refunded at the end of a tenancy unless there is clear and verifiable evidence that the tenant caused damage to the property.

Overall, the proposed Bill signals a decisive attempt by the Lagos State Government to rebalance landlord–tenant relations, enhance legal protections for renters, and introduce greater transparency and accountability within the state’s rental housing market.