Lagos Government Debunks Viral Tenancy Law Claims: No New Law on Advance Rent or Rent Caps Yet
In recent days, social media platforms—especially X (formerly Twitter)—have been abuzz with a claim that the Lagos State Government has amended its tenancy law. The viral post alleged that new regulations had been enacted to curb landlord excesses, including a supposed restriction on advance rent to three months for existing tenants, tighter rules on rent increases, and harsher penalties for erring landlords. But as it turns out, this claim is false.
On Saturday, May 24, 2025, Barakat Bakare, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Housing, came forward to debunk the viral misinformation. In an official statement issued through the Lagos State Government’s communication channels, she clarified that the purported amendment to the Lagos tenancy law did not originate from the Lagos State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (LASRERA).
“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,” said Bakare in her official release.
Let’s unpack the facts surrounding this controversy, the current status of Lagos tenancy law, and what it means for both landlords and tenants in Nigeria’s most populous city.
What Did the Viral Claim Say?
The false report, which gained significant traction online starting Friday, May 23, alleged that the Lagos State Government had enacted a new tenancy law. According to the misleading statement, the updated law included the following provisions:
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A cap on rent advance payments, limiting them to three months for existing tenants;
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Strict limits on how and when landlords can increase rent;
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New rules about terminating tenancy agreements;
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Fines of up to ₦100,000 or imprisonment up to three months for non-compliant landlords.
The viral nature of the claim led to confusion among residents, especially in Lagos where housing is already a sensitive issue due to the ongoing crisis in affordability and availability.
The Government’s Clarification: No New Law Has Been Passed
In her response, Barakat Bakare stated clearly that the current Lagos tenancy law, enacted in 2015, remains the only valid legislation governing landlord-tenant relationships in the state. She stressed that:
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There is no newly passed amendment to the law as of May 2025.
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The so-called changes were not issued or endorsed by LASRERA.
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The government is still in consultation phases with stakeholders regarding new rental policies.
Bakare confirmed that while a new tenancy bill is under review by the Lagos State House of Assembly, it has not yet been passed into law.
“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,” she explained.
She assured residents that any official changes to tenancy regulations would be formally announced by the appropriate authorities once enacted.
Understanding the Current Lagos Tenancy Law (2015)
To clear the air, it’s important to revisit the Lagos Tenancy Law of 2015, which remains in effect:
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Advance Rent Limit: For newly signed tenancy agreements, landlords cannot collect more than one year’s rent in advance. After the first year, subsequent rent should not exceed six months in advance.
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Eviction Process: Landlords are required to serve proper notices and follow due legal process before evicting tenants.
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Rent Increases: Landlords can increase rent, but it must be reasonable and in line with market realities, and tenants must be given adequate notice.
This law was enacted to protect tenants from exploitative landlords and establish fair housing practices. However, many landlords continue to demand up to two years' rent upfront, in clear violation of the law—highlighting issues around enforcement.
The Ongoing Lagos Housing Crisis: Why This Matters
The viral post and the public’s eager reaction underscore a deeper issue: Lagos is facing a serious housing crisis. As the commercial and economic hub of Nigeria, the state has witnessed rapid population growth, rising rents, and a severe housing deficit. According to recent data:
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Lagos needs over 3 million additional housing units to close the housing gap.
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Monthly rent is almost non-existent, with most landlords demanding 1 to 2 years’ advance payment.
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Cases of forced evictions, substandard housing, and rent-induced poverty are on the rise.
The situation has pushed the Lagos State House of Assembly to call on the government to introduce measures that will curb excessive rent increases and promote more affordable and sustainable housing policies.
Is Monthly Rent Payment a Possibility in Lagos?
The idea of switching to monthly rent payments, similar to practices in many developed countries, is gaining traction among housing advocates. In her statement, Bakare confirmed that monthly rental models are being discussed with stakeholders.
This approach could:
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Make housing more affordable and accessible to low- and middle-income earners;
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Reduce financial pressure on tenants;
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Promote better cash flow management for both tenants and landlords.
However, this transition will require systemic reforms, legal backing, and buy-in from landlords—many of whom rely on bulk rent payments as a form of financial security.
What This Means for Lagos Residents
For now, Lagos residents should take note of the following:
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There is no new tenancy law in place—any viral posts suggesting otherwise are false.
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The 2015 Lagos Tenancy Law remains valid, and residents should familiarize themselves with its provisions.
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The government is actively working on a new tenancy bill, but it is still undergoing legislative review.
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Any official updates will be communicated through credible government channels, not social media rumors.
How to Stay Updated and Protect Yourself
To avoid falling for misinformation, Lagos residents are advised to:
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Follow official channels such as LASRERA, the Ministry of Housing, and the Lagos State Government's verified social media pages.
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Consult with legal professionals when entering into tenancy agreements.
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Report exploitative landlord practices to LASRERA or relevant authorities.
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Stay informed about ongoing legislative changes affecting tenancy and housing in Lagos.
Final Thoughts: A Need for Urgent Housing Reform
The recent confusion over the viral tenancy law underscores a growing demand for transparent, enforceable, and tenant-friendly housing policies in Lagos. As Nigeria's most populated city, Lagos must modernize its rental system, enforce existing laws, and work toward sustainable housing solutions that benefit all.
While the state government has not yet introduced a new tenancy law, it is clear that the people of Lagos are hungry for change. As stakeholders continue to engage in dialogue, and as the new bill progresses through the House of Assembly, tenants and landlords alike must prepare for a future that could reshape how rent is paid, how landlords operate, and how housing is accessed in Lagos.
NaijaRush will continue to monitor and report on all updates regarding Lagos tenancy law and housing policy. Stay tuned for accurate, timely, and SEO-friendly news that matters to you.
