Residents in Abuja’s Federal Capital Territory are experiencing growing hardship from the escalating FCT house rent crisis.
Across districts like Kubwa, Lokogoma, Lugbe, and Gwarimpa, tenants face unaffordable rent hikes that displace entire families.
These rent increases often come without warning or justification, pushing low and middle-income earners into financial distress or relocation.
Frustrated by worsening conditions, many residents are urging FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to implement enforceable rent regulations immediately.
Mr. Moses Danjuma, a civil servant, said his rent was increased from ₦1.2 million to ₦2 million unexpectedly.
Due to stagnant wages and rising rent, Danjuma relocated to Zuba and now spends ₦10,000 daily on transportation.
Residents relocating to remote areas like Zuba or Chikakore also face heightened risks of crime and insecurity daily.
Mr. Akanni Ogundipe recalled being attacked by armed robbers at night while returning home in one of these suburbs.
Tragically, a friend identified as Michael lost his wife during a kidnapping incident shortly after relocating from Abuja.
Mr. Auwal Idris shared how his Kubwa apartment’s rent rose sharply from ₦500,000 to ₦700,000 within months.
He also explained that agent and caution fees — 20% and 10% respectively — further drained his limited resources.
Many tenants blamed the rent crisis on landlords who cite inflation, material costs, and low housing availability in Abuja.
However, residents argue that many properties were completed years ago and shouldn’t face constant rent increases today.
A landlady revealed that her agent added ₦200,000 to her actual rent without her consent or knowledge at all.
Residents now urge FCTA to follow Lagos State’s model and establish a housing regulatory board to protect tenants.
