The Abia State House of Assembly has passed the Abia Property and Tenancy Bill, paving the way for the establishment of the Abia State Property and Tenancy Regulatory Authority to regulate property transactions and protect the rights of landlords and tenants.
The bill was among four major pieces of legislation passed during Tuesday’s plenary following consideration by the Committee of the Whole.
New Agency to Regulate Property Sector
Sponsored by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Augustine Okezie, the Property and Tenancy Bill provides for the creation of a regulatory authority that will oversee property transactions, monitor the activities of property agents and safeguard the interests of landlords and tenants across the state.
The legislation is expected to bring greater transparency and accountability to the state’s real estate sector.
Three Criminal Justice Bills Also Passed
The Assembly also passed the Criminal Law Bill, the Administration of Criminal Justice Bill and the Restorative Justice Bill.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, said the bills would become law after receiving the assent of Governor Alex Otti.
He expressed confidence that the new legislation would strengthen governance and improve the administration of justice in Abia State.
Lawmakers Push Justice Reforms
Majority Leader, Hon. Okoro Kalu, described the Criminal Law Bill as a necessary reform to replace outdated legal provisions and enhance the protection of lives and property.
He said the Administration of Criminal Justice Bill would promote speedy trials, protect the rights of suspects, defendants, complainants and witnesses, while the Restorative Justice Bill would encourage offender accountability and provide justice and healing for victims of crime.
House Handles Other Business
The lawmakers also gave the first reading to the Abia State Basic Environmental (Amendment No. 3) Bill and adopted the report of the Joint Committee on Lands and Housing and Public Petitions on a land allocation petition.
In addition, the House received the state’s 2025 Financial Statement from the Accountant General and referred it to the House Committee on Appropriation and Finance for further consideration.
