By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Government has once again restated its unwavering commitment to upholding the one-year rent payment ceiling and cracking down on the imposition of unlawful fees by estate agents.
This assurance was given by the Commissioner for Housing, Mr Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, during a recent meeting with the leadership of the Estate, Rent and Commission Agents Association of Nigeria (ERCAN).
Mr Akinderu-Fatai stated that the government is fully resolved to implement a flexible rent payment system—monthly, quarterly, or yearly—with a firm upper limit of one year. This initiative, he said, is aimed at shielding tenants from unjust rent surges and unwarranted charges not sanctioned by law.
He pointed out that certain unethical practices, particularly among estate agents, have continued to contribute to the high cost of living in the state and have had a negative impact on tenants’ rights.
“The government remains resolute in addressing these longstanding issues,” the commissioner said. “According to the Lagos State Real Estate Transaction Law, agents are not permitted to charge beyond 10 percent on property transactions. Anyone found demanding inflated rents or collecting unauthorised fees will be dealt with in accordance with the law. There will be no leniency.”
Mr Akinderu-Fatai also called on estate agents to partner with the government in advancing the new rent structure. He urged them to serve as allies in safeguarding the interests of both landlords and tenants.
He encouraged agents to call out and distance themselves from colleagues who continue to exploit renters through inflated rent demands and hidden charges not supported by regulation.
Responding to the government’s position, the President of ERCAN, Mr Godwin Aleke, expressed the association’s willingness to work closely with state authorities to ensure the new rent policy is properly enforced.
He made it clear that the association is fully on board with the government’s objective of cleaning up the real estate sector. According to him, ERCAN is dedicated to fostering transparency, fairness, and professionalism in all dealings between property owners, agents, and tenants alike.
