The Ebonyi State House of Assembly has raised serious concerns over the skyrocketing cost of housing and shop rentals, attributing the burden to exploitative practices by landlords and agents. The issue has sparked an urgent legislative response aimed at protecting residents.
During a debate on a new executive bill submitted by Governor Francis Nwifuru, lawmakers highlighted how unchecked rent increases are forcing low-income residents into rural areas or makeshift housing, deepening hardship in urban centers.
House Leader Hon. Ogbonna Ikoro tabled a motion sending the bill to committee, where landlords, agents, and other stakeholders will be invited for extensive review.
Speaker Rt. Hon. Moses Odunwa expressed support for the bill, acknowledging its potential to relieve housing pressure. He also announced the formation of a nine-member ad hoc committee, chaired by Deputy Speaker Hon. Chinedu Onah, to handle the legislative process.
Residents and unions (like the Ebonyi NUJ) have called for regulation, citing some two-bedroom flats now renting for ₦600,000–₦900,000 and shops for as much as ₦1.2 million annually pushing ordinary citizens to the brink.
The NUJ has specifically urged the Assembly to enact tenancy reforms that curb “shylock landlords and house agents.”
The bill is currently under scrutiny, with feedback from affected parties expected to guide amendments aimed at capping rent hikes and standardizing leasing practices.
