A Nigerian man has sparked online reactions after warning that landlords in Lagos State may begin charging tenants for solar panel permits, potentially worsening the already high cost of housing in the state.
Viral Video Ignites Solar Permit Debate
The man, identified on X as @Dontee_, reacted to a viral video showing a resident complaining about a solar power permit fee imposed in his apartment. The video had earlier prompted the Lagos State Government to clarify its policy on solar installation permits.
Wale Ajetunmobi, Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, stated that the permit fee applies only to residents of government-owned social housing estates, not to private property owners or tenants across the state.
Concerns Over Landlord Exploitation
Despite the clarification, @Dontee_ expressed fear that the policy could be misused. He warned that landlords might introduce additional charges for solar installations, further burdening tenants already struggling with high rents.
In his words: “This is dangerous because landlords will soon start charging tenants for solar permit and it will worsen the current rent crisis in the state.”
Public Reactions and Mixed Opinions
The issue has generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing concern about rising living costs and the shift toward alternative energy due to unstable electricity supply.
- @fimiletoks commented: “But you can create holes in my roof. If you leave and remove your solar panels, who will fix the roof?”
- @yojora said: “Some landlords already do this sef.”
- @RealSeanCurtis shared: “FYI, some landlords don’t accept you having ur panels on the roof. I have two experiences where my tenants did solar. One roof was ok absestos, it was breaking when climbing. They fixed it but didn’t when exiting. The second left the holder but roof leaks.”
- @GideonOLUDAYOMI remarked: “Exactly my thought when I saw the news.... Lagos where people don't sleep on opportunities? This is just a subtle go ahead.”
- @TayoOdutuyo noted: “Only 'tenants in social housing estates owned by the Lagos State Government' are required to get it before installing. Greediness is what will make other landlords start charging for it.”
Businesswoman Celebrates Solar Installation
In a related development, a woman running a herbal medicine business celebrated after installing solar electricity at her plaza. She showcased the panels, batteries, and inverters she purchased, along with the receipt detailing the total cost.
The Lagos State Government’s clarification aimed to address misinformation, but the debate continues as residents worry about potential exploitation by landlords.
