Oyo govt engages estate agents to address rent commission extortion

On Wednesday, the Oyo State Government convened a meeting with members of the Estate Rent and Commission Agents Association to address the increasing problem of rent and commission extortion, reaffirming its dedication to protecting tenants and improving the housing sector statewide.

During the meeting with association leaders, the Commissioner for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Hon. Akin-Funmilayo Williams, emphasized the need for regulation of house agents’ activities. He pointed out that while the government cannot set rental prices, it can enforce regulations around these practices. The meeting aimed to discuss and find a sustainable solution to these issues.

The Commissioner mentioned a recent report from a local radio station that featured his image regarding high rental prices and expressed public calls for him to take action. He also noted the State House of Assembly’s recent discussion on this topic, indicating that legislation to regulate estate agents would be forthcoming.

He highlighted the importance of consulting stakeholders before any proposed law is brought before the House of Assembly. This collaborative approach would ensure that new legislation reflects the input of both the ministry and industry professionals.

He urged the association to formulate a clear stance on the matter, which could then be presented to the House for further discussion.

The Commissioner stated that it would not be suitable for the ministry to unilaterally determine the commissions agents can charge; rather, it should rely on feedback from those in the field, which the ministry would review and use to formulate recommendations for legislative consideration.

He explained that enforcement of regulations is only feasible with a corresponding law in effect.

In response, the Chairman of the Oyo State Estate Rent and Commission Agents Association, Hon. Okekunle Mutahir, praised the government for its supportive policies. He noted that enhanced security in the state has attracted more residents, and the association has been monitoring concerns raised by the public for over a year.

Okekunle pointed out that inspection fees have been exploited by some unscrupulous individuals to extort the public, a practice that the association abolished in January last year. He called on the government to assist in rooting out such corrupt members from the association.