Introduction
In Nigeria, there is a devious issue jeopardizing how people get homes—tenancy fraud. It is more than just breaking rules; it messes with fair housing for individuals and entities who need it. This article dives into the tricky world of tenancy fraud, sharing real stories and numbers to show just how big a problem it is and why we all need to pay attention.
Types of Tenancy Fraud
- Unlawful Subletting
In urban areas like Lagos and Abuja, cases of unlawful subletting have been documented, where tenants rent out their properties without official consent, exacerbating housing shortages.
- False Succession
Reports highlight instances where individuals without rightful entitlement attempt to succeed a tenancy following the death of a resident, leading to legal disputes and housing complications.
- False Right To Buy/Right To Acquire
Studies indicate a concerning trend of tenants providing false information in applications for Right to Buy or Right to Acquire, contributing to a loss of public housing stock.
- Key Selling
Investigations in cities such as Port Harcourt have uncovered cases of key selling, where residents compromise property security for financial gain, facilitating unauthorized access.
- Unlawful Assignment
The practice of unlawful assignment has been observed in major cities, with residents allowing others to live in their homes without official permission, contributing to housing imbalances.
- Obtaining Housing by Deception
Instances of obtaining housing through deception have been reported, revealing the vulnerability of the application process to fraudulent activities.
Detecting Tenancy Fraud
Regular background checks to be taken to address tenancy fraud in Nigeria:
- Regular Tenancy Checks
Housing authorities, such as the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), conduct regular checks to ensure compliance with tenancy agreements, minimizing the prevalence of unlawful subletting.
- Collaboration with Landlords and Statutory Agencies
The collaboration between housing agencies and statutory bodies, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has resulted in improved fraud detection and enforcement efforts.
- Investigating Reports
Cases reported to agencies like the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) are thoroughly investigated, leading to legal actions against perpetrators.
Conclusion
As Nigeria grapples with the complexities of its housing landscape, addressing tenancy fraud requires a multifaceted approach. The integration of robust detection mechanisms, collaboration between stakeholders, and stringent enforcement of housing regulations will be crucial in ensuring fair access to housing for those in genuine need.
