The Lagos State Government has strongly criticized landlords and property agents who are exploiting residents by imposing unjustifiable increases in house rents. The government has pledged to take action to protect tenants from these exploitative practices. Barakat Bakare, Special Adviser (Housing) to the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority, expressed the government’s stance during a live interview on TVC’s program, “YOUR VIEW.”
Bakare stated that the Lagos State Government “would no longer fold its arms and watch its residents being exploited by landlords and agents.” She also clarified the distinct roles of house agents and lawyers in rental matters, emphasizing the limitations of legal practitioners in real estate and house rental transactions. According to Bakare, the Lagos State tenancy law is currently under review, aiming to incorporate crucial provisions, such as those related to caution fees, which are presently lacking in the existing legislation.
Bakare urged residents who encounter violations of these regulations to report such incidents to the Lagos State Regulatory Authority, either through physical visits or online channels. She reiterated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to addressing the housing challenges faced by Lagos residents, affirming that the government is constantly engaging landlords, property associations, and developers to promote collaboration and control excessive housing costs.
The Special Adviser emphasized the government’s commitment to fairness and justice in the allocation of state-owned housing, stating that the distribution process adheres to “fair, transparent, and well-laid-out criteria.” Bakare advised Lagosians to exercise caution and diligence by verifying the registration status of agents and developers with LASRERA before finalizing any transactions. She also issued a call to all real estate practitioners, urging them to register with the Lagos State Real Estate Registration Agency.
