The Oyo State House of Assembly is set to draft a bill aimed at regulating the activities of house agents across the state, following growing complaints from tenants over exorbitant and arbitrary charges.
Lawmakers disclosed that the proposed legislation is a response to persistent public outcry, with many residents accusing house agents of inflating rent, charging excessive agency and agreement fees, and exploiting the ongoing housing shortage. In some cases, tenants report paying fees far above legally acceptable limits before securing accommodation.
According to members of the Assembly, the planned bill will seek to introduce clearer guidelines on agency charges, promote transparency in rental transactions, and protect tenants from unfair practices. The lawmakers also indicated that stakeholder consultations, including engagements with property owners, agents, and tenant associations, would precede the drafting of the bill.
Residents have welcomed the move, describing it as long overdue, while urging the Assembly to ensure strict enforcement once the law is passed. Housing advocates say effective regulation could ease the financial burden on tenants and restore fairness to the state’s rental market.
Further details on the scope and timeline of the proposed bill are expected in the coming weeks as deliberations continue at the Assembly.
