Relief In Sight For Tenants! Ebonyi Assembly Advances Rent Control Bill

The Ebonyi State House of Assembly has begun legislative processes on a proposed law to regulate residential and commercial rent charges across the state.

The bill, titled “A Law to Control Rent for Residential and Business Premises in Ebonyi State and for Related Matters” (HAB/005/2025), was introduced by Governor Francis Nwifuru and passed its first reading on Friday.

During the session, House Leader Kingsley Ikoro led the debate, moving a motion for the bill to progress to the second reading. The motion was seconded by Ifeanyi Nwakpu, who represents Ikwo North Constituency.

Ikoro described the proposed legislation as timely and people-focused, pointing out that many court disputes in the state stem from unresolved landlord-tenant conflicts.

He emphasized the need for regulation to prevent exploitation. “Too often, tenants are asked to pay two years’ rent upfront, only to encounter undisclosed charges. This imposes undue hardship,” Ikoro said, urging his colleagues to support the bill.

In support, Aloysius Nwodo of Ebonyi North decried the worsening rent crisis, noting that some landlords contribute to rising poverty levels among tenants. He also highlighted a communication gap between landlords, caretakers, and tenants.

Several lawmakers voiced similar concerns and recommended the bill be sent to a committee for further scrutiny. They agreed that, once enacted, the bill would protect the rights of tenants and reduce frequent rent-related disputes in the state.

In response, Speaker Rt. Hon. Moses Ije-Odunwa announced the formation of an ad-hoc committee to review the bill. Deputy Speaker Chinedu Onah will serve as chairman, while other members include Kingsley Ikoro, Nkemka Onuma, Arinze Chukwu, Aloysius Nwodo, Ifeanyi Nwakpu, Chikaodili Nome, Chinyere Nwogbaga, and the Clerk of the House, who will serve as secretary.

Separately, the plenary also marked the Assembly’s two-year anniversary. The Speaker commended lawmakers for their dedication and reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to working with the governor, particularly in developmental efforts like the newly proposed National Institute in Ukawu.

As part of the celebration, lawmakers including Victor Nwoke (Abakaliki North) and Celestine Ogba (Onicha East) showcased achievements in their constituencies, highlighting key projects and community initiatives over the past two years.