The House of Representatives has passed a bill seeking to restrict compulsory multi-year rent payments in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for second reading.
The bill’s sponsor, Paul Nnamchi, told lawmakers during Wednesday’s debate that excessive advance rent demands placed financial pressure on residents and constrained household savings and small businesses.
The proposal covers rental payments, rent increases and agency fees, and would establish a unified digital register for housing agents. It has passed only second reading and is not yet law.
Nnamchi said the measure was intended to protect tenants while recognising landlords’ commercial interests and agents’ professional role.
Lawmakers disagreed over the proposed restrictions. Ibe Okwara Osonwa supported regulation but cautioned against an outright ban on multi-year arrangements, while Patrick Umoh raised concerns about property rights and freedom of trade.
Ayodeji Alao-Akala said the proposal targeted compulsory multi-year payments rather than preventing landlords from increasing rents. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu clarified that the bill’s scope was limited to the FCT.
House Leader Julius Ihonvbere said the proposal would proceed to a public hearing where residents and professionals could contribute.
Sources: Vanguard; Channels Television
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