In a decisive move aimed at protecting residents from exploitation, the Cross River State House of Assembly has officially banned the activities of house agents across the state following numerous complaints of unfair rent inflation and sharp practices in the real estate sector.
The decision, which was announced during plenary on Thursday, came after several lawmakers raised concerns about the growing cases of rent manipulation, multiple charges, and illegal levies imposed by unregulated property agents on tenants and prospective home seekers.
According to reports, the lawmakers described the actions of many agents as “economic sabotage and public extortion”, adding that the situation has worsened the already high cost of living in the state.
The Assembly noted that many agents have taken advantage of the housing demand in urban centers like Calabar, Ikom, and Ogoja, to exploit residents through excessive commissions and arbitrary rent increases — often without the knowledge or consent of landlords.
Speaking during the session, one of the legislators emphasized that the Assembly’s move is intended to restore sanity to the housing sector and ensure that rent agreements are fair, transparent, and affordable for ordinary citizens.
The resolution also mandates the Ministry of Lands and Housing and other relevant agencies to set up a regulatory framework for property transactions in the state. This will include the registration and monitoring of genuine real estate practitioners to prevent further exploitation of tenants.
Tenants’ associations and civil society groups have widely commended the Assembly’s decision, describing it as a bold step toward curbing corruption and abuse in the housing market.
Meanwhile, the House has urged landlords and residents to report any violations or continued activities by banned agents to the appropriate authorities, assuring that strict penalties will be enforced on defaulters.
This move marks a major step in the Cross River government’s broader effort to promote affordable housing and social justice, particularly for low- and middle-income earners struggling to cope with the economic situation.
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