By Innocent Ekeh Nkeiruka
Idemili North residents have expressed excitement over Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s promise to address rising house rents in Anambra State, describing the initiative as timely and beneficial for struggling tenants.
Speaking in Nkpor on June 25, several residents commended the governor’s commitment, noting that the increasing cost of accommodation has placed significant financial pressure on families and individuals.
A widow, Mrs. Chidiebere Israel, said she would be delighted if the promise becomes reality, stressing that most of her earnings are spent on rent rather than feeding, clothing, or welfare.
She lamented that the burden of annual rent payments has become unbearable, leaving many residents with little income to cater for other essential household and personal needs.
Another resident, Mr. Chibuzo Emeh, described the governor’s intervention as a blessing, saying it would help many tenants remain in urban communities instead of relocating to villages.
According to him, some landlords increase rents arbitrarily without considering prevailing economic realities or the hardships tenants face, making survival increasingly difficult for low and middle-income earners.
Mr. Udor Chikezie alleged that some landlords justify rent increments with promises of renovations, painting, roofing repairs, or borehole projects, yet fail to implement such improvements afterward.
Also speaking, Mrs. Ngozi Uka urged government to establish rent benchmarks based on building age, available amenities, and housing quality to ensure fairness and affordability.
Concluding,
Mr. Mathew Ogeh appealed to the governor to also review agency, tenancy agreement, and kola fees, noting that these additional charges further burden tenants.
Nkeiruka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State.
