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The member representing the Ankpa 1 state constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Akus Lawal, has proposed to revoke the current Rent Control and Recovery of Residential Premises Law, which was enacted in 2007.
The proposed legislation, known as the Kogi State Tenancy Bill, 2025, was introduced to the House on Wednesday, May 7, to enhance administrative effectiveness, improve legal clarity, ensure fair representation in regulatory bodies, and encourage the integration of digital methods in tenancy regulation.
Lawal, who also leads the House Committee on Finance and Economic Planning, said that the proposed legislation is essential for filling the gaps in the 2007 Law and making it better suited to contemporary realities.
The bill suggests creating a Rent Control Board and Task Force, which would be empowered to establish standard rent rates and enforce strict adherence to tenancy laws.
As outlined in sections 8 to 11 of the draft bill, the board will oversee landlords’ and tenants’ conduct and implement the governor’s exclusive authority to determine rent limits.
Section 13 establishes a new process for alternative dispute resolution, requiring that rent-related complaints be presented to the board before pursuing legal action in court.
Additionally, sections 16 and 17 delineate the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants, aiming to foster a more equitable relationship between them.
Section 18 forbids landlords and agents from demanding more than 12 months’ rent in advance, with penalties established for such violations. According to section 13, landlords who earn more than three million naira annually from rent must pay a rent tax.
Section 15 allows landlords and tenants to petition the board to review or modify rent amounts.
The bill also prohibits individuals from bringing rent-related disputes to law enforcement or security personnel unless the situation involves criminal activity, as outlined in section 13.
Lawal stated that the bill includes “inherent checks and balances” to ensure that parties in a rental agreement stay within the limits of their legal rights and responsibilities.
He indicated that the proposed legislation aims to foster peaceful coexistence between landlords and tenants and promote transparency, order, and fairness in the housing sector of Kogi State.
