Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has declared a total ban on house and land agent activities across the state, effective January 1, 2026 in a bid to protect tenants and reduce the high cost of rent in the state.
Governor Nwifuru attributed the surge in rents and property prices to the exploitative practices of agents, who often charge outrageous fees, sometimes as high as N500,000, just to show prospective tenants properties they do not even own.
“I don’t want to see or hear anything about house or land agents in Ebonyi State from 2026. I am here for the good people of Ebonyi. This exploitation must stop. No agent should collect any money from anyone seeking accommodation again,” the Governor said.
The ban aligns with ongoing efforts by the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, which has raised concerns about rising rents and is working on bills to regulate landlords and housing practices. Lawmakers say these measures are intended to ease the burden on low- and middle-income earners struggling with high accommodation costs.
Ultimately, the government believes the ban will reduce exploitation, lower housing and shop rental prices, and ensure fairer access to accommodation. From 2026, it hopes to restore balance in the housing sector by removing exploitative middlemen.
The ban has sparked widespread reactions, with many residents welcoming it as a bold step to curb exploitation in the real estate sector and make housing more affordable.
