The Lagos State Government has proposed a new Tenancy and Recovery of Premises Bill 2025, which criminalises harassment and illegal eviction of tenants by landlords, making it unlawful to eject occupants without a valid court order.
Under the draft legislation, landlords are prohibited from using self-help measures such as locking out tenants, cutting electricity or water supply, removing roofs, dismantling buildings, or employing thugs to force tenants out of rented premises.
Section 10 of the bill mandates landlords to respect tenants’ right to quiet and peaceful enjoyment of their homes, stating that landlords must not interfere with utilities or take any action that disrupts lawful occupation.
Section 43 further provides that any landlord or person who demolishes, alters, damages, or forcibly ejects a tenant without a court order commits an offence. Offenders face a minimum fine of ₦1 million, up to six months’ imprisonment, or both upon conviction.
The proposed law follows widespread complaints of landlords engaging in forceful evictions and harassment during rent disputes.
The bill also empowers courts to determine whether rent increases are reasonable. Section 33 allows tenants to challenge rent hikes, requiring courts to assess rent levels in similar locations, hear evidence from both parties, and consider any special circumstances related to the property.
Importantly, landlords are barred from evicting tenants while such cases are pending, offering protection amid rising rents in Lagos, where increases of 50 to 200 per cent are common.
Where a rent increase is found unreasonable, courts may order a revised rent amount.
The draft law introduces expedited legal processes for tenancy disputes. Sections 20–24 provide for faster filings through originating summons, mandatory hearings within 14 days, and allow courts to sit on weekends, public holidays, or virtually. Mediation timelines are capped at 30 days.
To promote transparency, Section 12 requires landlords to provide tenants with a detailed account of service charges and security deposits every six months, while refundable deposits must be returned except where damages are properly documented.
Additionally, Section 7 reinforces tenants’ rights to privacy, peaceful enjoyment of premises, access to common areas, and compensation for approved improvements made to the property.
If passed, the bill is expected to significantly strengthen tenant protections and curb abuses within Lagos’ rental housing market.
