The Anambra State House of Assembly has commenced plans to enact a new law aimed at curbing rising house rents and tackling exploitative housing practices, particularly in student populated areas.
This development was disclosed by the Majority Leader, Ikenga Ofodeme, while addressing students who staged a peaceful protest at the Assembly complex over the increasing cost of accommodation across the state.
Ofodeme commended the students for their orderly conduct and assured them that the legislature is already working on a bill to regulate the housing sector. He noted that the sharp rise in rent not only affects students but also places significant financial pressure on parents and guardians.
According to him, the proposed legislation will address arbitrary charges imposed by landlords and agents, ensuring fairness and transparency in rental agreements. He urged the protesting students to remain calm as the Assembly works towards a lasting solution.
Also speaking, Anayo Okpalaeke, Chairman of the House Committee on Education, reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to resolving the issue within a short timeframe. He emphasized the importance of protecting students from exploitation and maintaining access to affordable housing.
The protest was organized by the National Association of Nigerian Students, Joint Campus Council in Anambra State. The students expressed concern over what they described as excessive rent hikes and inflated agency fees in communities hosting tertiary institutions.
State chairman of NANS, Ifeanyichukwu Chukwuemeka, said the demonstration was necessary to draw attention to the growing burden placed on students and their families. He called on lawmakers to introduce clear regulations that would standardize rent and elish reasonable agency fees.
Chukwuemeka stressed that the lack of oversight in the housing sector has allowed landlords and agents to impose unfair costs, making accommodation increasingly unaffordable for many undergraduates.
The proposed law is expected to introduce a comprehensive framework that will restore order to the housing market, protect tenants, and ensure that students can access safe and reasonably priced accommodation across Anambra State.
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