The Cross River State House of Assembly has resolved to stop the activities of housing agents in Calabar and other parts of the state over their alleged role in arbitrarily increasing rent prices, thereby worsening the cost of living for residents.
The lawmakers reached the decision during plenary on Tuesday, following a motion raised under matters of urgent public importance by the member representing Abi State Constituency, Hon. Davies Etta.
Etta expressed deep concern over what he described as “unreasonable, unprovoked, and economically destabilising” rent hikes across Calabar and its environs. He accused some landlords and property agents of taking advantage of the current economic hardship to exploit tenants.
According to him, many residents have complained that landlords, often acting on the advice of housing agents, now demand exorbitant rents even on old and poorly maintained buildings.
He said, “Buildings constructed over two or three decades ago, many with leaking roofs, faulty plumbing, and poor drainage are being rented out at outrageous prices. Cross Riverians are crying out for help as landlords, frequently guided by house agents, continue to raise rent on dilapidated properties without justification.”
Etta lamented that a self-contained apartment on Marian Road now costs as much as ₦1.5 million per year, while in Calabar South, a one-bedroom flat goes for between ₦800,000 and ₦1 million. In areas such as Parliamentary Extension, E1, State Housing, and CICC, tenants are being charged up to ₦2 million or more for one- and two-bedroom apartments.
He further condemned the practice of landlords issuing immediate eviction notices to tenants unable to meet new rent demands, with some insisting on two years’ payment upfront. He described the development as “heartless, economically destabilising, and socially dangerous,” stressing that decent housing is a basic human necessity and should not be treated as a luxury.
Etta urged the House to enact laws that would regulate property rentals and leasing in the state, protect tenants’ rights, and ensure a fair balance between landlords and occupants. He also called on the Ministry of Housing to monitor rent practices and promote affordability by encouraging the use of locally produced building materials.
In his remarks, Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, commended the motion as “timely and people-centred.” He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to passing laws that directly improve citizens’ welfare and promote fairness in housing.
“This Assembly belongs to the people,” the Speaker said. “We will continue to stand with them to ensure balance, fairness, and affordability in the housing sector across Cross River State.”
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