LAGOS, Nigeria — The Lagos State Government has issued a strong warning to landlords and property agents engaging in exploitative rental practices, saying it will no longer tolerate actions that impose undue hardship on tenants.
Speaking during a live appearance on TVC’s Your View programme on Saturday, May 10, 2025, Barakat Bakare, Special Adviser on Housing to the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA), declared the government’s resolve to act against those inflating rents unjustifiably or charging questionable fees.
“The Lagos State Government would no longer fold its arms and watch its residents being exploited by landlords and agents,” Bakare said.
She explained that a review of the state’s tenancy law is currently underway to plug loopholes and introduce new provisions, including the regulation of caution fees—charges that are not adequately addressed in the existing legal framework.
“The review aims to incorporate crucial provisions, such as those related to caution fees, which are presently lacking in the existing legislation,” she added.
Bakare also clarified the legal boundaries for real estate agents and lawyers, stating that while legal practitioners can be involved in real estate transactions, their roles are limited and must not overstep regulatory provisions.
The statement comes amid growing complaints from Lagos residents about arbitrary rent hikes, inflated agency and legal fees, and poor accountability among some landlords and property managers.
Bakare encouraged residents to report any violations of the current regulations to LASRERA, either in person or via digital channels.
She reiterated the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to addressing housing affordability and tenant protection.
“We are continuously engaging landlords, property associations, and developers to promote collaboration and also to control excessive housing costs,” she said.
In addition, she urged the public to verify the registration status of agents and developers with LASRERA before entering into any housing agreements to avoid falling victim to scams or illegal practices.
