Nigeria Rights Guide
Illegal Eviction in Nigeria: Your Rights as a Tenant
A landlord in Nigeria cannot evict you without a court order. Changing locks or removing belongings without a court process is illegal. Here is how to fight it.
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Nigerian Law
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Direct Answer
In Nigeria, self-help eviction — where a landlord locks you out, removes your belongings, or cuts utilities to force you out — is illegal. A landlord must give proper written notice and then obtain a court order for possession. You can challenge illegal eviction at the Magistrates' Court or High Court and apply for an urgent injunction to be reinstated.
What the Law Says
Your Legal Foundation
Recovery of Premises Act Cap R4 LFN 2004
Section 4
“No person shall be evicted from any premises without a court order for possession of the premises.”
Lagos Tenancy Law 2011
Section 37
“A landlord shall not use or threaten force, remove tenant's goods, change locks, or interfere with utilities to recover possession — only a court order authorises eviction.”
Constitution of Nigeria 1999
Section 44
“No moveable or immoveable property shall be compulsorily acquired without prompt payment of compensation and access to court.”
What to Say
Exact Words to Use
“"I have not received proper court-ordered notice of eviction. Under the Recovery of Premises Act, no eviction can take place without a court order. I will remain on this property and will be seeking an urgent injunction."”
Tone: Firm, calm — to your landlord or their agent
“"I am reporting an illegal eviction. My landlord has changed the locks / removed my property without a court order, which is a criminal offence under Nigerian law."”
Tone: Factual — to police when reporting
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Lagos Tenancy Law apply outside Lagos?
The Lagos Tenancy Law 2011 applies only in Lagos State. Other states are governed by their own tenancy laws or the federal Recovery of Premises Act. However, the core rule — that eviction requires a court order — applies nationwide.
My landlord cut my electricity and water to force me out — is this legal?
No. Cutting utilities to compel a tenant to leave is expressly prohibited under the Lagos Tenancy Law (and most state equivalents) as an unlawful means of recovery. Report to the police and apply to court for an injunction.
What is a "Notice to Quit" and what should I do when I receive one?
A Notice to Quit is the first step in a legal eviction — it tells you the landlord wants the property back. Receiving it does not mean you must leave immediately. After the notice period expires, the landlord must still obtain a court order before you are required to vacate.
I owe rent arrears — does that mean my landlord can evict me immediately?
No. Even if you owe rent, the landlord must go through the court process. They can sue for the arrears at the same time as seeking a possession order. You should try to pay or negotiate a payment plan before the court date.
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