The Lagos Tenancy Bill 2025 criminalises illegal evictions, strengthens tenant rights, and ensures fair dispute resolution for renters

Lagos State Government has unveiled the draft Lagos State Tenancy and Recovery of Premises Bill 2025, criminalising harassment and illegal evictions of tenants.

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The bill, which aims to protect renters across the state, makes it an offence for landlords to forcibly evict tenants or interfere with their quiet enjoyment without a valid court order.

Section 10 of the bill mandates landlords to respect tenants’ peaceful enjoyment of premises, prohibiting actions such as removing roofs or cutting electricity and water supply.

Section 43 provides penalties for offenders, including fines of up to N1 million, six months’ custodial or non-custodial sentences, or both.

The legislation responds to frequent reports of landlords locking out tenants, breaking into apartments, or employing thugs during rent disputes.

Section 33 also grants courts the authority to determine whether rent increases are justified, taking into account local rent levels, evidence from both parties, and special circumstances regarding the property.

Evictions are prohibited while disputes are ongoing.

The bill introduces streamlined legal processes for tenancy disputes under Sections 20–24.

Cases can now be filed via originating summons, with hearings scheduled within 14 days.

Courts may sit on weekends, public holidays, or virtually, while mediation is capped at 30 days.

Transparency in financial dealings is reinforced. Section 12 requires landlords to provide tenants with six-monthly accounts of service charges and security deposits, which must be refunded unless damages are documented.

Section 7 further protects tenants’ privacy, access to common areas, and compensation for approved improvements.

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The Lagos Tenancy and Recovery of Premises Bill 2025 marks a significant step toward safeguarding renters’ rights, promoting fairness in the housing sector, and reducing unlawful practices by landlords.