S4C Welcomes Abia’s Landmark Property and Tenancy Law, Urges Other States to Follow Suit

Spaces for Change (S4C) has welcomed the Abia State House of Assembly’s passage of the Property and Tenancy Regulatory Authority Bill 2026.

The advocacy group emphasized that the law will regulate the real estate market, eliminate uncertified agents, and enforce a 5% ceiling on property commissions.

The bill seeks to establish the Abia State Property and Tenancy Regulatory Authority to address the excessive and exploitative rents charged by landlords and housing agents in the state, including agent commissions that currently go as high as 20% of annual rent.

Once signed into law by the Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, it will also establish clear processes to address situations where tenants breach tenancy agreements or engage in conduct that undermines the property’s orderly occupation.

Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, S4C Executive Director, said in a statement emailed to Persecondnews on Saturday: “This action by the Abia State Assembly is highly commendable.

“It demonstrates that with political will, the yearning and aspirations of the people can be reflected in governance. Across Nigeria’s major urban centres, including Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, exorbitant rent hikes have made decent and affordable housing increasingly out of reach.

“The result is a rise in slums, indiscriminate construction on waterways, and the occupation of public infrastructure such as under-bridges, road medians, and open spaces.

“This cycle often ends in government-led demolitions and forced evictions, with serious climate and social implications.

“Putting in place a responsive legal framework that makes housing affordable for urban residents is a step in the right direction toward housing justice.”

Ibezim-Ohaeri, therefore, urged the governor to give assent to the law without delay so that it can take effect across the state.

“We also call on other state governments, particularly the Lagos State government, to take similar action and move forward on its stalled tenancy reform, so that more Nigerians can benefit from fair, regulated, and secure housing.”