The Delta State House of Assembly has pledged to ensure that the proposed Landlord/Tenancy Bill undergoes thorough scrutiny to meet modern housing needs and protect the rights of landlords, tenants, and agents across the state.
The Chairman of the House Joint Committee on Housing, Women Affairs, Girl Child Entrepreneurship and Humanitarian Support Services, and Urban Renewal, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, gave the assurance on Monday during a public hearing on the bill held at the Assembly Complex in Asaba.
Declaring the session open, Anyafulu explained that the proposed legislation aims to establish a clear legal framework for tenancy relations in Delta State, outlining the rights, duties, and obligations of all parties involved in property leasing.
She noted that the bill would repeal the existing Rent Control and Recovery Law of 1977, describing it as outdated and incapable of addressing the realities of the state’s current housing system.
“The proposed law covers a wide range of issues, notably the relationship between landlords and tenants, contracts to create a tenancy, rent control, and payment for use and occupation,” Anyafulu stated.
“In a nutshell, the bill seeks to provide an enabling environment for a housing sector that serves the needs of everyone — landlords, agents, and tenants — thereby laying the foundation for a stable, happy, and peaceful society.”
Anyafulu assured that the Assembly was committed to a transparent and inclusive process, stressing that all views and recommendations presented by stakeholders would be thoroughly reviewed before the bill’s passage.
She emphasised that housing remains a key driver of social, economic, and political stability in the state, and urged participants to make meaningful contributions.
“Distinguished stakeholders, this is democracy in action. The public hearing is your opportunity to participate in decision-making and governance. This bill is a win-win one. It seeks to provide a framework for an efficient and fair housing sector that protects and serves everyone’s interests,” she said.
Representatives from 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 at the hearing, recommending amendments to certain clauses to further strengthen the proposed law.
Other lawmakers present included the House Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, Hon. Oloye Pereotu, Hon. Ferguson Onwo, Hon. Austine Uroye, Hon. Mathew Omonade, and Hon. Bernard Odior.
Also in attendance were officials from relevant ministries and a cross-section of housing stakeholders from within and outside Asaba.
