The Delta State House of Assembly has assured residents that the proposed Landlord and Tenant Bill currently under consideration will be thoroughly examined to ensure it addresses modern housing challenges and protects the rights of both landlords and tenants.
The assurance was given by the Chairman of the House Joint Committee on Housing, Women Affairs, Girl Child Entrepreneurship and Humanitarian Support Services, and Urban Renewal, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, during a public hearing on the bill held at the Assembly Press Centre, Asaba.
Declaring the session open, Hon. Anyafulu explained that the bill seeks to create a clear and fair legal framework for Delta State’s housing sector. She said it will define the responsibilities, rights, and obligations of landlords, tenants, and property agents to ensure peaceful and lawful tenancy relationships.
According to her, the new bill will repeal the existing Rent Control and Recovery Law of 1977, which she described as outdated and no longer suitable for the current housing realities in the state.
Hon. Anyafulu emphasised that the legislative process will be transparent and inclusive, assuring that all stakeholders’ contributions and recommendations will be carefully considered before the bill is passed into law.
“This House is committed to ensuring that the final law reflects fairness, justice, and the evolving needs of both landlords and tenants in Delta State,” she said.
Representatives from key institutions, including the Customary Court of Appeal, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Urban and Regional Planning, Association of Tenants and Agents, and the Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors, made presentations during the session. Many of them suggested amendments to strengthen certain clauses in the proposed law for better enforcement and protection of all parties.
Also present at the public hearing were the House Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, Hon. Oloye Pereotu, Hon. Ferguson Onwo, Hon. Austine Uroye, Hon. Mathew Omonade, and Hon. Bernard Odior.
Officials representing the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, as well as delegates from relevant ministries and housing stakeholders from within and outside Asaba, also attended the event.
The hearing marks another step in the Assembly’s efforts to modernise Delta State’s housing and tenancy regulations to promote fairness, reduce disputes, and encourage investment in the housing sector.
