The Cross River State Government has issued a stern warning to real estate agents and landlords against inflating house rents and property charges, describing the practice as unethical and exploitative.
The directive, announced on Thursday through the State Ministry of Urban Renewal and Housing, follows a surge in public complaints over arbitrary rent hikes in major cities, including Calabar, Ikom, and Ogoja.
According to the ministry, the government is determined to curb exploitative real estate practices and ensure affordable housing for residents across the state.
“The government will no longer tolerate any act of rent manipulation or hidden charges by estate agents or property owners. Anyone caught inflating rent prices or extorting tenants will face appropriate sanctions,” the statement read.
Officials also hinted at plans to introduce a rent control framework that will standardize property valuation and prevent agents from imposing unjustified commissions on tenants.
Governor Bassey Otu’s administration, which has made housing affordability a key priority, reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens from economic exploitation, particularly amid Nigeria’s growing cost-of-living crisis.
Residents and stakeholders have been encouraged to report violations to the Ministry of Urban Renewal and Housing for swift investigation and enforcement.
