The Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN) has given a seven-day ultimatum to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and the State House of Assembly to sign into law a bill aimed at curbing the exploitation of residents by landlords and house agents.
Speaking at a press briefing in Osun State, Speaker of YAN, Hammed Fatomi, expressed frustration over the unchecked activities of landlords and agents, which he said have made life increasingly difficult for residents. "Our cities and towns have become breeding grounds for fraudulent and exploitative practices, with landlords and house agents operating freely without regulation," he said.
Fatomi highlighted the widespread suffering caused by these unscrupulous practices, citing the experiences of students, job seekers, newly-employed civil servants, newly-weds, and young professionals. "We speak with one voice to end the exploitation that continues to plague our people," he stressed.
The Youth Assembly is demanding the immediate implementation of the Agency Regulatory Bill, which was passed by the State House of Assembly, and the establishment of a regulatory body to oversee the activities of house agents and landlords in the state.
"We urge the Osun State Government to treat this matter with the urgency it deserves within seven days," Fatomi said, adding that a planned peaceful protest was postponed due to the political climate surrounding local council issues.
As pressure mounts, all eyes are now on the government to respond swiftly to the youth-led call for action.
