Tenants Express Concerns Over New Land Laws In Niger State
Low-income tenants in Niger State are calling on the government to reconsider its newly introduced land laws, which they argue prioritize revenue generation over the protection of vulnerable residents from exploitative landlords and agents.
The plea comes after the Niger State government announced the introduction of a new land use charge. Under the new policy, places of worship, old people’s homes, correctional facilities, Emir’s palaces, and residences of senior citizens are exempt from the charges.
Maurice Bello Magaji, Commissioner for Lands and Survey, explained that the new land law aims to consolidate all property and land-based rates in line with the state’s Revenue Harmonisation Law. Magaji, a legal practitioner, stated that the charges will be determined based on property assessments, taking into account factors such as location, purpose, and type.
“The Niger Land Use Charge is aligned with international best practices and the Revenue Harmonisation Law. It is designed to enhance the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to provide better social amenities,” Magaji said in a statement.
Despite these assurances, tenants and low-income earners are concerned that the law does little to address their struggles amid prevailing economic challenges. Many are urging the government to introduce measures that protect them from predatory practices by landlords and ensure that the new charges do not exacerbate their financial burdens.
