In a decisive move aimed at tackling the pervasive issue of exorbitant rent charges in Lagos, the State Government has issued a stern warning to house owners found guilty of renting out their properties at unjustifiably high fees.
The announcement came through a statement released by the Lagos State Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, who emphasized the government's commitment to addressing sharp practices in the real estate sector. Akinderu-Fatai asserted that the government would wield a significant penalty against allottees engaging in such exploitative behavior.
Citing numerous complaints from residents of various state housing schemes regarding inflated rent prices, Akinderu-Fatai highlighted the intention behind the government's housing policies: to make life more bearable for Lagosians. He expressed disappointment that some individuals were exploiting the government's initiatives for personal gain, rather than fulfilling their obligations to the community.
"The essence of asking allottees to make a five per cent down payment and spread the remaining amount for ten years was to make life bearable for Lagosians," Akinderu-Fatai stated. "This is what Mr. Governor wants to achieve, but some people seem to be taking Mr. Governor’s magnanimity for granted."
The Commissioner urged facility managers and association members in the estates to report culpable allottees to the ministry, emphasizing that offenders would face severe consequences, including the forfeiture of their apartments and a refund of their payments.
Echoing Akinderu-Fatai's sentiments, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Engineer Abdulhafis Toriola, underscored the urgency of the situation. Toriola highlighted concerns about homeowners harboring individuals of questionable character, posing a threat to residents' safety and well-being. He assured that the ministry would investigate such claims promptly and take necessary action to protect residents in affected estates.
Furthermore, Toriola urged allottees to take ownership of joint facilities and adhere to the rules set forth to maintain the estates' integrity and functionality.
The Lagos State Government's crackdown on exorbitant rent charges underscores its commitment to ensuring housing affordability and equitable access to accommodation for all residents. With the establishment of measures to regulate and monitor both tenants and landlords, the government seeks to enforce existing laws and address grievances effectively.
Residents are encouraged to speak up against arbitrary rent increases and report any instances of exploitation, as the government emphasizes that enforcement of housing laws relies on active citizen participation. As Lagos continues to grapple with the challenges of urbanization and housing affordability, these proactive measures signal a step in the right direction towards a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
