Why Every Tenant Should Know the Tenancy Law in Their State

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Most tenants sign rental agreements without ever reading or knowing their state’s tenancy law. Unfortunately, this lack of awareness often leads to exploitation, unfair eviction, or payment disputes . In states like Lagos, Abuja, and Rivers, tenancy laws are in place to protect both tenants and landlords. 1. What Are Tenancy Laws? Tenancy laws are state-specific regulations that outline: Rights and obligations of tenants and landlords Processes for rent review and eviction Guidelines for property maintenance and dispute resolution Example: The Lagos Tenancy Law 2011 forbids landlords from demanding more than one year’s rent in advance from new tenants in certain property categories. 2. Why It Matters for Tenants Protection Against Exploitation: Helps you know if charges or requests from a landlord are legal. Eviction Protection: Understand legal eviction processes, so you are not illegally locked out. Fair Rent Reviews: Know your rights when landlords attem...
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Student Accommodation Scams During Resumption Period: What Every Student Should Know

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A New Session, Old Problem

Every academic resumption period in Nigeria comes with an accommodation rush. Students, especially freshers, are often desperate to secure affordable hostels or off-campus apartments before lectures commence. Unfortunately, this urgency has made them prime targets for student accommodation scams.

Take Femi, a first-year student at the University of Lagos. He found a “perfect” off-campus apartment on social media, made a quick payment, and never heard from the agent again. He ended up stranded for weeks.

Why Students Fall for These Scams

  1. Last-Minute Search – Many wait until a few days before resumption to house-hunt.
  2. Unverified Online Listings – Scammers exploit social platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Facebook Marketplace.
  3. Peer Pressure & Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) – Seeing friends secure places quickly pushes students to rush decisions.
  4. Limited Campus Hostel Spaces – With few official hostel slots, many turn to unverified agents.

Common Scam Tactics

  • Fake Property Listings – Pictures from real apartments used to market non-existent rentals.
  • Multiple Tenants for One Room – Several students unknowingly pay for the same apartment.
  • Upfront Payment Without Inspection – Scammers demand deposits before physical viewing.
  • Fake Hostel Representatives – Posing as “school-accredited” agents or hostel managers.

The Numbers Behind the Scams

  • 41% of Nigerian students experience some form of off-campus accommodation fraud at least once (NOIPolls).
  • Peak scam period: two weeks before and after academic resumption (internal campus surveys, 2024).
  • Estimated financial loss: Over ₦2 billion annually among Nigerian students (internal housing report, 2024).

How Students Can Stay Safe

  1. Start Early – Begin searching at least 4–6 weeks before resumption.
  2. Verify Property & Agent – Confirm ownership via property documents or referrals.
  3. Avoid Full Upfront Payments – Pay only after signing a legitimate agreement.
  4. Use Trusted Platforms – Rely on school housing boards or known, reputable websites.
  5. Involve a Trusted Senior/Guardian – Never make solo financial decisions under pressure.

Final Word

Scammers thrive on urgency and ignorance. For students, the golden rule is simple: verify before you pay. A little patience now can save you months of financial stress and academic disruption.


4-Common-Student-Accommodation-Scam-Tactics


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