The “Lagos State Tenancy and Recovery of Premises Bill, 2025” is an Executive Bill that the Lagos State Government has sent to the House of Assembly for consideration and potential enactment.
The proposed legislation is anticipated to drastically change the state’s rental housing market if it is passed, especially in light of growing complaints over sharp rent increases—up to 200% at times—and ambiguous duties between landlords and tenants.
The Bill is a reaction to several complaints from locals about alleged illegal evictions, such as being driven out by intimidation during rent disputes, having doors forcibly removed, or being locked out of their homes.
A significant legal safeguard in tenancy arrangements throughout Lagos is introduced by a fundamental feature of the proposed law, which requires landlords to get a valid court order before evicting any renter.
All forms of harassment, forced eviction, and self-help tactics—including the use of hired thugs or threats to reclaim property—are specifically prohibited by the law.
Landlords who wilfully turn off the water or electricity supply, remove roofing materials, or take any other action that prevents a renter from lawfully occupying a home will be prosecuted under the draft law.
Any action that compromises a tenant’s right to a quiet and peaceful use of rented space is forbidden by Section 10 of the Bill.
The Bill imposes strict penalties to discourage misuse. According to Section 43, it is illegal for a landlord to try to evict a tenant without a court order, modify a building to force eviction, intimidate or harass a tenant, or destroy property.
If found guilty, these criminals face a minimum N1 million fine, a maximum six-month jail sentence, or both.
Additionally, the proposed law aims to stop unjustified rent increases. According to Section 33, courts have the authority to determine whether rent increases are fair by looking at current rates in similar locations, taking into account arguments from both parties, and analysing the particulars of the property in question.
The new Lagos state Bill proposes accelerated legal procedures in an effort to guarantee prompt dispute resolution. Tenancy matters may be started by originating summons under Sections 20 to 24, and hearings must be arranged within 14 days.
In order to expedite settlements, the courts may also use virtual proceedings, hold sessions on weekends or public holidays, and restrict mediation procedures to a maximum of 30 days.
The Bill also improves control of security deposits and service fees.
Landlords will be required to issue tenants a detailed breakdown of service charge expenditures every six months, while security deposits must be refunded unless there is verifiable evidence of damage to the property
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