Tenancy reform bill scales second reading in Kogi

The Kogi state house of assembly has passed the Tenancy (Repeal and Enactment) Bill 2025 through a second reading.

The legislation seeks to repeal the Rent Control and Recovery of Residential Premises Law of 2007, introducing a new legal framework aimed at strengthening tenant protections and regulating property rental practices.

Akus Lawal, member representing Ankpa I constituency and sponsor of the bill, said the new law is designed to address longstanding loopholes in the 2007 law, which applied only to residential properties and lacked an implementation structure.

“The bill introduces proper nomenclature, standard practices, and enforcement structures that will regulate tenancy relationships across the state,” Lawal said.

“Since 2007, there has been no official classification of accommodation types or rent ceilings, which has left tenants vulnerable to exploitation.”

The bill proposes the establishment of a rent control board and a task force to enforce rent standards, resolve disputes, and license property agents.

It also recommends imposing a rent tax on landlords whose annual rental income exceeds N3 million, while capping advance rent payments at a maximum of 12 months.

Other provisions include mandatory registration of rental properties, a cap on agency fees at 5 percent of the rent value, and pre-litigation alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

The bill also prescribes criminal sanctions for impersonation, bribery, and rent-related extortion.

Lawmakers praised the proposed legislation’s digital approach and its potential to restore equity in the housing market.

The bill has now been referred to the appropriate committee for further scrutiny.

“This bill is a bold and necessary step to protect citizens, promote justice, and modernise property rental practices in Kogi state,” Lawal said.

The bill was first presented on the floor of the Kogi assembly on Wednesday.