By Correspondent in Minna.
Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger state.
Low-income earners and tenants in Niger State have appealed to the state government to reconsider its newly introduced land laws, expressing concern that the policy may exacerbate their financial struggles rather than protect them from exploitative landlords and agents.
Our correspondent reports that the plea follows the recent announcement by the state government regarding the introduction of land use charges, which the state government said aims to boost the state’s revenue base.
Many tenants who spoke with our correspondent on Friday in Minna,argued that these measures overlooked the dire situation of the poor, especially in the face of an already challenging economic climate.
The Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Maurice Bello Magaji, explained that the new land order, intended to enhance land administration, would consolidate property rates in line with the State Revenue Harmonization Law.
The policy will assess land charges based on factors such as location, purpose, and property type.
While the government emphasizes that certain properties, such as places of worship, old people’s homes, correctional facilities, Emir’s palaces, and senior citizens’ residences, will be exempted from the charges, tenants fear the law’s broader implications for them.
“The new land use charge aligns with international best practices and is designed to boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) for better provision of public services,” the Commissioner added.
He also highlighted the state’s efforts to upgrade its Geographical Information System (GIS), which he said will streamline land acquisition processes and improve data management.
However, many residents, especially tenants, have voiced their concerns about the potential burden of these charges. Mrs. Hannatu Joseph, a widow and teacher with a family to care for, expressed her frustration, stating that the new law could leave tenants vulnerable to exploitation by unscrupulous landlords.
“The government is looking at financial benefits, not the harsh reality poor tenants face.
“If landlords pass the land charges onto tenants, the poor will suffer even more,”she said.
Mrs. Joseph and other residents, also urged the state government to consider the economic hardships facing many citizens, particularly low-income earners, before implementing the new law.
They called on Governor Muhammad Umar Bago to facilitate dialogue between stakeholders, including tenant representatives, to discuss potential solutions that would protect vulnerable tenants from being unfairly burdened by rising rent costs.
As the state seeks to enhance its revenue and improve urban planning, tenants insist that the welfare of the masses must remain a priority.
Many of them argue that without government intervention, landlords might raise rents to offset the new charges, leading to even greater financial strain for the most vulnerable.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
Niger Tenants Urge Government to Prioritize Welfare Amid New Land Charges.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
