By Peter Omopo
Abeokuta, September 10, 2025 — The Ogun Youth Assembly has called on Governor Dapo Abiodun to urgently regulate the state’s housing sector amid rising rents and what it described as “exploitative practices” by estate agents.
Chairman of the Assembly, Habeeb Whyte, made the appeal on Wednesday in Abeokuta, warning that the unchecked activities of agents are worsening the struggles of residents already grappling with economic hardship.
Whyte alleged that many estate agents impose outrageous inspection fees and hidden charges, often showing clients unsuitable properties or houses they have no authority to lease.
“People are complaining about the high cost of housing. Some agents demand outrageous inspection fees and other hidden charges, only to take people to houses they don’t even like—or in some cases, properties they have no authority to rent out. This is unfair to many Nigerians struggling to make a living,” he said.
He urged Governor Abiodun, the Ogun State House of Assembly Speaker, and the Commissioner for Housing to collaborate on policies that would set clear guidelines for agents, standardise inspection fees, ensure transparency, and promote affordable rent models.
Whyte emphasised that housing is a basic human need, stressing that the government has a duty to protect citizens from exploitation in the property market. He also noted that accommodation challenges directly affect productivity, welfare, and overall quality of life.
Nigeria’s housing deficit, estimated at 28 million units, remains a critical issue nationwide. Analysts say more than ₦21 trillion would be required to close the gap, as rapid population growth continues to outpace housing development, driving property costs beyond the reach of low- and middle-income households.
The Ogun Youth Assembly pledged to continue advocating for policies that prioritise the welfare of young people and the general public.
