Lagos Lawyers Warn Landlords Against Removing Roofs, Disconnecting Water and Electricity to Evict Tenants
Landlords who remove the roofs of occupied apartments or disconnect electricity and water supplies to force tenants out amid tenancy disputes are engaging in unlawful self-help that could attract criminal liability, the Amuwo Odofin Lawyers Forum has warned.
The lawyers gave the warning at the forum’s 2026 legal outreach programme held on Saturday in FESTAC, Lagos, amid concerns over the use of force and other intimidating tactics to resolve landlord-tenant disputes.
The programme provided free legal assistance and advice on tenancy, property and matrimonial matters, particularly for people who cannot afford the cost of hiring lawyers to pursue their cases in court.
Supported by the Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Prince Lanre Sanusi, the outreach attended to at least 75 people facing various legal challenges.
The initiative was designed to promote peaceful coexistence, reduce conflict and crime, and encourage residents to seek lawful solutions to disputes rather than resorting to confrontation.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the forum, Mr Christopher Aghaonu, said the initiative was established to help members of the public understand their legal rights and the appropriate steps to take when confronted with social and legal challenges.
Aghaonu expressed concern over the increasing disputes between landlords and tenants, noting that many disagreements could be resolved amicably if the parties sought professional legal guidance.
He described self-help in resolving legal disputes as counterproductive, warning that such actions could escalate tensions, trigger violence and undermine peaceful coexistence in communities.
“It is a criminal act for any landlord to remove the roof of the house or disconnect electricity light and water in an apartment whose tenant is in tenancy dispute with the house owner in order to eject the occupant,” he said.
The forum chairman noted that disputes could arise over rent increases, the duration of tenancy agreements and the percentage of proposed increases, among other issues.
He said the forum was committed to helping residents navigate such disagreements, alongside disputes involving leases, property and matrimonial matters, through lawful and peaceful channels.
The legal outreach also offered residents an opportunity to present their individual challenges and receive guidance on possible remedies.
One of the participants, Mr Anthony Nwachukwu, said he had been experiencing difficulties with his electricity service provider, Eko Electricity Distribution Company, following the disconnection of his prepaid meter.
Nwachukwu said the advice he received from the forum provided him with guidance on how to pursue a resolution to the matter.
The forum’s intervention highlights the importance of accessible legal services in helping residents understand their rights, address grievances and avoid disputes escalating into more serious conflicts.
For tenants and landlords alike, the initiative serves as a reminder that disagreements over rent, property and utility services should be addressed through lawful procedures rather than intimidation or unilateral action.
The forum expressed appreciation to the Amuwo Odofin Local Government Chairman for supporting the programme over the years.
In view of this, people facing tenancy disputes should seek qualified legal advice on their specific circumstances and the applicable tenancy laws before taking action.
Uchenna Eletuo
