Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has issued a stern warning to real estate agents who extort tenants after collecting the legally mandated 10 per cent of yearly rent. Speaking during an address to residents, Soludo revealed that his administration has received reports of agents demanding additional charges from tenants even after they have paid their rent.
Governor's Warning
“I learnt that after tenants pay their house rent, agents still collect additional fees from them. House agents in Anambra State should get ready, we are coming for them soon,” Soludo said. The governor did not specify the exact penalties but made it clear that enforcement actions would be taken.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over exploitation in the rental housing market. Under Anambra State law, house agents are entitled to a maximum of 10 per cent of the annual rent as their commission. However, reports indicate that some agents have been charging extra fees under various pretexts, such as processing or administrative costs.
Impact on Tenants
Tenants in the state have long complained about arbitrary charges that inflate their housing costs. One resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “After paying the full year’s rent, the agent demanded an additional 5,000 naira for ‘documentation.’ Many of us are afraid to refuse because we might lose the apartment.”
Soludo’s statement signals a crackdown on such practices. The governor has previously taken steps to regulate the real estate sector, including introducing measures to ensure transparency in property transactions. This latest warning is part of broader efforts to protect tenants from exploitation.
Legal Framework
The Anambra State Tenancy Law stipulates that no agent or landlord may demand more than 10 per cent of the annual rent as commission. Violations can result in fines or other penalties. However, enforcement has been inconsistent, leading to widespread abuse. Soludo’s direct intervention suggests that the state government will now prioritize enforcement.
“We are coming for them soon,” Soludo reiterated, emphasizing that the government will not tolerate any form of extortion. The governor urged tenants to report such incidents to the relevant authorities so that action can be taken.
As the state prepares to enforce the law, many tenants hope that this warning will lead to lasting change. The government has yet to announce a specific timeline or mechanism for reporting violations, but Soludo’s statement indicates that action is imminent.
