According to him, some agents exploit desperate tenants by charging as much as ₦500,000 merely to show houses and shops they do not own.
Ebonyi Governor Bans Agents Over Rising Cost of House Rents, Accuses Them of Exploiting Residents
The Ebonyi State Government has announced a sweeping ban on house and land agents, a move aimed at tackling the persistent rise in rents across the state.
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, who disclosed the policy, said the activities of property agents had become a major driver of the housing crisis.
According to him, some agents exploit desperate tenants by charging as much as ₦500,000 merely to show houses and shops they do not own.
“The exploitation must stop. From next year, no agent is permitted to collect any money from anyone seeking accommodation in Ebonyi State,” Nwifuru declared.
The governor stressed that the ban, which will take effect from 2026, is designed to eliminate fraudulent practices in the real estate market, stabilize rents, and make housing more affordable for residents.
With this directive, landlords and prospective tenants are expected to deal directly with each other without third-party interference.
The policy marks a major shake-up in Ebonyi’s property sector and is expected to bring relief to both families and business owners struggling under the weight of escalating rental costs.
