The Lagos State Government has announced plans to revoke the housing allocations of residents in state-owned estates found violating tenancy rules, engaging in criminal activities, or neglecting maintenance obligations. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Housing, aims to maintain high living standards, protect estate infrastructure, and ensure homes go to genuine residents in need.
Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, delivered the warning during a monthly stakeholders’ forum in Epe, stressing that compliance with estate regulations remains non-negotiable. Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Abdulhafiz Toriola, he underscored the importance of paying facility maintenance fees and insurance premiums, describing them as “crucial to sustaining the standards and integrity of the estates.”
The state government is taking a hardline stance against any resident who alters or renovates their property without approval. Toriola emphasized that such unauthorized modifications distort estate layouts and breach the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the government. “The State Government will not hesitate to withdraw allocations from allottees found in violation of the MoU,” he warned, signaling stricter enforcement of housing rules.
He also cautioned allottees who have yet to take physical possession of their homes, noting that abandoned or unoccupied units could be reallocated. The government’s goal, he said, is to make housing accessible to genuine occupants—not speculative buyers hoarding properties for profit.
In a move to cleanse government estates of criminal elements, the Housing Ministry is collaborating with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and security agencies to identify offenders. Toriola revealed that any allottee found leasing their apartments to internet fraudsters, drug users, or individuals of questionable character risks immediate revocation.
He said, “Any allottee found to have leased or rented apartments to illicit drug users, internet fraudsters, or persons of questionable character will have their allocation revoked if such allegations are verified.” This approach aligns with the government’s broader efforts to promote safety and decency within public housing communities.
To maintain estate infrastructure, residents were urged to pay management fees and insurance premiums promptly. These payments fund essential services such as waste disposal, security, street lighting, and sanitation, critical for preventing risks like fire or structural damage.
The ministry also encouraged residents to report suspicious activities via text or WhatsApp to 0706 330 1251 or email housing@lagosstate.gov.ng.
Toriola added that discussions with private firms are underway to introduce alternative power solutions, reducing maintenance costs for residents.
This latest enforcement builds on earlier measures. In November 2024, the Lagos State Government revoked housing allocations left unoccupied for over two years to ensure equitable access. Akinderu-Fatai said the decision supports Lagos’ goal of bridging its housing deficit, criticizing prolonged vacancies in Rent-to-Own schemes meant for residents “in desperate need of accommodation.”
The commissioner warned that leaving government-allocated houses idle undermines infrastructure and the broader housing agenda. By tightening control, Lagos is signaling a firm commitment to responsible homeownership, urban order, and equitable housing distribution.
