The Lagos State Government has denied a viral statement circulating on social media that claimed a new amendment to the state’s tenancy law had been enacted.
The alleged update, which began making rounds on X on Friday, May 23, purportedly introduced a cap limiting advance rent payments to three months for existing tenants, along with new restrictions on rent increases and tenancy terminations. It also listed penalties, including fines of up to N100,000 or three months’ imprisonment.
However, Barakat Bakare, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Housing, dismissed the claims on Saturday, May 24. In an official statement, Bakare clarified that the purported amendment did not originate from the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA) and that the current tenancy law enacted in 2015 remains in force.
Bakare acknowledged that a new tenancy bill is under review at the Lagos State House of Assembly but emphasised that it has not yet been passed into law. She added that the Ministry of Housing is actively engaging stakeholders in discussions about real estate transaction practices and payment structures, including the potential for monthly rent payments.
“The culture of monthly payment and a clear understanding of the process of real estate transactions at all levels are being discussed at these engagements,” the statement read. Bakare assured the public that any changes to the law would be officially communicated once enacted.
The false report emerged amid an intensifying housing crisis in Lagos, marked by rising rents, exploitative landlord practices, forced evictions, and a significant housing deficit, further exacerbated by rapid urbanisation and population growth. In response to the worsening situation, the Lagos State House of Assembly has urged the government to adopt measures aimed at controlling excessive rent increases.
