The Lagos State Government has reiterated its warning to property agents and landlords imposing tenancy agreement fees above the legal 10% threshold. Citizens have been urged to take action by reporting such violations.
Speaking during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Ikeja, Special Adviser on Housing, Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, expressed frustration over persistent complaints from residents being extorted by unscrupulous actors in the housing sector.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by reports of these illegal practices,” she said. “We call on Lagosians not to stay silent. Report these agents and landlords, the government can’t be everywhere.”
She emphasised that the state’s tenancy laws are clear: the maximum allowable agreement fee remains 10% of the total annual rent.
According to her, most of the abuses are carried out by unregistered individuals not affiliated with professional bodies.
Odunuga-Bakare assured that the government has engaged with credible estate agent associations, who distanced themselves from the perpetrators and pledged their cooperation.
Meanwhile, Lagos State Housing Commissioner Moruf Akinderu-Fatai announced that the government is exploring monthly and quarterly rent payment models to reduce financial strain on residents.
He noted that the current yearly rent system is no longer sustainable for many.