REPS ADVANCE BILL TO CHECK HIGH RENTS, EXCESSIVE AGENT FEES IN FCT
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to control arbitrary rent increases and excessive fees charged by estate agents in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The bill, sponsored by Professor Paul Nnamchi, representing Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency of Enugu State, also seeks to prevent landlords from demanding multiple years’ rent in advance.
Presenting the bill, Nnamchi said the proposed law would protect tenants from exploitation and address the growing challenges of accessing affordable accommodation in the FCT.
Supporting the proposal, House Minority Leader Fredrick Agbedi said high rental costs had forced many residents to settle in areas they would not ordinarily choose.
However, lawmaker Patrick Umoh opposed the proposed restrictions, arguing that landlords should have the freedom to manage their rental businesses.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu maintained that government intervention was necessary to protect citizens where market practices threaten public interest.
The bill is expected to proceed to further legislative consideration.