What Are the Procedures for Tenancy Dispute Resolution in Ogun State?
A Practical Guide for Landlords and Tenants
Introduction
Disputes between landlords and tenants are common, especially in fast-growing areas like Ogun State where urban expansion and property investment are on the rise. These disputes often involve issues like:
Non-payment of rent
Illegal eviction
Property damage
Breach of tenancy terms
Refusal to vacate after expiration
If you’re a landlord or a tenant in Ogun State facing a tenancy disagreement, it’s important to know:
You cannot take the law into your own hands.
There are clearly defined procedures for resolving tenancy disputes in Ogun, rooted in the Ogun State Tenancy Law and Nigerian civil procedure.
This article explains those procedures in plain language so you can understand your rights, obligations, and the proper legal steps.
Chapter 1: Common Types of Tenancy Disputes in Ogun State
Some frequent causes of tenancy disputes include:
For Landlords:
Rent arrears
Refusal to vacate after notice
Illegal subletting
Property misuse or damage
For Tenants:
Illegal eviction
Rent increase without notice
Poor property maintenance
Seizure of personal property
Chapter 2: Attempt Amicable Resolution First
The law encourages parties to try resolving disputes peacefully before going to court.
Steps for Amicable Resolution:
Have a formal discussion between landlord and tenant.
Use a third-party mediator (e.g., community leader, lawyer, family member).
Put any agreement in writing and signed by both parties.
This method is often faster, cheaper, and less stressful than court.
Chapter 3: Legal Framework for Tenancy Dispute Resolution in Ogun
Tenancy disputes in Ogun State are governed by:
Ogun State Tenancy Law
Recovery of Premises Act
Magistrate Court Law
Nigerian Civil Procedure Rules
These laws provide for peaceful resolution through:
Magistrate Courts
High Courts (for large claims or complex cases)
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms
Chapter 4: Formal Legal Process for Tenancy Dispute Resolution
If informal settlement fails, follow these steps:
Step 1: Issue Proper Legal Notice
For landlords, this may include:
Notice to Quit (7 days, 1 month, or 6 months depending on tenancy type)
7-Day Owner’s Intention to Recover Possession (after Notice to Quit expires)
For tenants:
Written complaint to landlord about unlawful eviction, harassment, or breach.
These notices must be properly dated, signed, and delivered physically or posted on the premises.
Step 2: File a Complaint in Court
Proceed to the appropriate court based on the nature of the dispute:
| Dispute Type | Court |
|---|---|
| Eviction, rent arrears, breach of agreement | Magistrate Court |
| Claims above ₦10 million or complex title issues | High Court |
You’ll need to submit:
Statement of claim
Tenancy agreement (if available)
Proof of notices served
Evidence (rent receipts, photos, videos, etc.)
Step 3: Court Hearing and Evidence Presentation
Both parties are allowed to:
Present oral and documentary evidence
Call witnesses
Cross-examine each other
The magistrate or judge will:
Review the facts
Examine the tenancy agreement (if any)
Consider the conduct of both parties
Deliver a judgment based on the law and evidence
Step 4: Court Judgment and Enforcement
If the landlord wins:
The court may issue a Possession Order, Eviction Order, and/or Order for Rent Arrears
If the tenant wins:
The court may void an illegal eviction, award damages, or grant an injunction
To enforce judgment, apply for:
Warrant of Possession (for eviction)
Garnishee Order (to seize rent owed from tenant’s bank or employer)
Only court bailiffs may enforce evictions or seizure—not the landlord personally.
Chapter 5: Use of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Many tenancy cases are suitable for ADR methods like:
1. Mediation
An independent third party helps both sides reach a compromise.
2. Arbitration
A neutral party hears both sides and gives a binding decision (less formal than court).
ADR can be initiated through:
Multi-Door Courthouses in Ogun State
Legal Aid Council
Community mediation centers
ADR is voluntary, private, and often faster than court.
Chapter 6: Sample Legal Documents You May Need
Notice to Quit
Rent Demand Notice
Tenancy Agreement
Evidence of Rent Payment
Court Summons
Statement of Defence (if you’re the tenant)
Chapter 7: Don’ts During a Tenancy Dispute
Whether you’re a landlord or tenant, avoid these mistakes:
Landlords:
Locking out tenants
Disconnecting utilities
Using area boys to intimidate tenants
Removing tenant belongings
Tenants:
Refusing to pay rent without legal justification
Subletting without permission
Damaging property in retaliation
Threatening or harassing the landlord
These can make your case weaker in court and expose you to legal liability.
Chapter 8: Cost and Timeline of Tenancy Disputes in Court
| Activity | Estimated Timeline | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Legal notice delivery | 7–180 days (depending on type) | ₦0–₦10,000 |
| Filing court case | 1–2 weeks | ₦10,000–₦50,000+ |
| Court hearing & judgment | 1–6 months | Depends on complexity |
| Enforcement | 1–3 weeks | Varies |
Costs are lower at Magistrate Court than High Court.
Chapter 9: Should You Hire a Lawyer?
Yes—especially if the dispute involves:
High rent arrears
Complex contract terms
Forgery or fake documents
Threats, violence, or physical eviction
A qualified lawyer will:
Draft your documents
Represent you in court or ADR
Help you get compensation or possession orders faster
Call to Action
Are you currently involved in a tenancy dispute in Ogun State?
Get matched with a property lawyer near you
Access sample legal notices and court templates
Don’t risk your case. Handle tenancy disputes the right way—legally and effectively.
Conclusion
Tenancy disputes can be frustrating, but they don’t have to be messy or illegal. Whether you’re a landlord dealing with defaulting tenants, or a tenant facing eviction, Ogun State laws provide a fair and lawful process to resolve conflicts.
Always start with amicable dialogue, follow up with proper documentation, and don’t hesitate to use the courts or mediation when needed.
Knowledge is power. Know your rights. Follow the law. Protect your property or tenancy legally.