The Delta State House of Assembly has planned to introduce a bill to regulate rent increases and promote affordable housing in the state.
Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor announced this plan on Friday during a press conference in Asaba, coinciding with the conclusion of the Second Session and the 2nd anniversary of the 8th Assembly.
He said the proposed legislation aimed to address the rising concerns regarding high house rents, which had prompted numerous complaints from constituents, particularly in urban areas such as Asaba, Warri, Sapele, and Ughelli.
The Speaker said the bill sought to alleviate the financial strain on low- and middle-income earners facing rent challenges.
Guwor stated: “We cannot ignore the cries of our people who are being priced out of decent accommodation.
“This Assembly is determined to bring relief through legislative action that protects both tenants and landlords while promoting fair housing policies.”
He said the bill on high rent in Delta, sponsored by the House Leader, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, and 27 other members, had already been listed for first reading.
He emphasised that the Assembly would work closely with relevant stakeholders, including the state Ministry of Housing, real estate developers, landlords’ associations, and civil society groups, to ensure that the proposed bill is balanced and enforceable.
The announcement of the proposed rent control bill is expected to be tabled during the next legislative session, with many Deltans expressing hope that it will bring long-overdue stability to the housing sector.
The Speaker also highlighted several landmark bills passed, oversight activities, and collaborative engagements with the executive arm of government that had strengthened governance and development in the state.
“Our 2nd Anniversary is not just a time to celebrate but also to reaffirm our commitment to the people,” Guwor added.
He noted that during the Second Session of the 8th Assembly, the House demonstrated uncommon diligence and unity of purpose in the discharge of its legislative duties.
“We have received, considered, and passed a number of impactful bills and motions that directly touch the lives of Deltans. These are critical laws aimed at promoting education, healthcare, youth empowerment, infrastructural development, environmental protection, security, and economic growth,” Guwor said.
According to the Speaker, the remaining eight are currently under consideration. Additionally, he said nine bills received by the House in the First Session scaled Third Reading, were passed, and subsequently assented to by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori during the period under review.
On the enforcement of the Anti-Open Grazing Law, Speaker Guwor said the Deputy Speaker, who also chairs the Legislative Compliance Committee, held meetings with Local Government Council Chairmen to ensure implementation.
He added that at a recently expanded Security Council meeting with the Governor, several decisions were made on how best to enforce the law.
Regarding the delineation in Warri Federal Constituency, the Speaker called for calm and patience, noting that relevant authorities were already addressing the situation.
The Speaker also announced a novelty football match between the Delta State House of Assembly and members of the State Executive Council, scheduled to take place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, on 21st of June 2025.
He said a thanksgiving service will be held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Region 34 Headquarters, Unity Model Parish, behind Junior Staff Quarters, Asaba, followed by a reception at the Legislators’ Quarters, Okpanam Road, on Sunday, 22nd June 2025.
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