The lawmaker representing Akure South Constituency 1 in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Olajide Oguntodu, has assured that the legislature will intervene to address the skyrocketing cost of housing in Akure, the state capital, describing the situation as inhumane and unfair.

Also, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Gbenga Fasua, kicked against the rising house rent, stating that the actions of most agents are not commensurate with the people’s income.

The lawmaker and local government boss’s stance was in connection with the protest embarked on by youths in Akure on Tuesday, who kicked against skyrocketing house rents in the state, which they labelled exorbitant and arbitrary, and which they said were not checked by the state government.

While expressing concern over the situation, Oguntodu stressed that the incessant rent hikes have placed undue pressure on families, young individuals, and low-income earners, who he said are already grappling with the harsh economic climate.

Oguntodu, who vowed to sponsor a bill to provide a legal framework for the regulation of house rents and property sales in the state, disclosed that he will also move to establish an appropriate regulatory agency to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in the housing sector.

According to the lawmaker, housing is a basic necessity, which he emphasised must be regulated to protect both tenants and property owners.

He said: “I have listened carefully to the growing concerns, pains, and frustrations being expressed by residents of our city over the alarming increase in house rent, as well as the activities of some landlords and agents who appear to be insensitive to the prevailing economic realities in Nigeria.

“I want to assure you that your voices have been heard. As one of your elected representatives in the Ondo State House of Assembly and a member of the legislative arm of government, I consider it my responsibility to intervene constructively.

“I hereby assure the good people of Akure that I will take this matter to the floor of the House and initiate legislative action aimed at addressing the arbitrary increase in house rent and unethical practices in property transactions.

Meanwhile, Fasua, who stated that he had since been advocating against the actions of some landlords and agents in the Akure metropolis, stated that necessary measures will be taken to curb the menace.

“I appeal to landlords and estate agents to show understanding, compassion, and restraint. Sustainable progress can only be achieved when economic realities are balanced with human considerations.”