Your rent is about to expire, and suddenly the landlord increases it by 30%, 50%, or even more.

That’s why the Lagos Tenancy Bill and discussions around rent control have generated so much attention. The goal is to create clearer rules around landlord-tenant relationships and address concerns about rising housing costs in the state.

Supporters argue that tenants need more protection from arbitrary rent hikes, especially at a time when the cost of living is already putting pressure on households.

Critics, however, believe strict rent controls could discourage property development, reduce housing supply, and make it harder for landlords to maintain their properties.

The debate raises an important question: How do you protect tenants from excessive rent increases without discouraging investment in new housing?

If a rent control policy were introduced in Lagos, do you think it would make housing more affordable or create new problems?