My landlord sent a notice

1. Your Landlord Cannot Force You Out Without Due Legal Process.
Under Nigerian tenancy law, a landlord cannot just tell you to leave or threaten eviction without following proper legal steps. They generally must serve a formal written eviction notice and then obtain a court Order for possession if you don’t leave. Using threats, intimidation, or saying “my lawyer will contact you” is not a lawful eviction. It’s a tactic, but not a substitute for a legal eviction proceeding, but some landlords do it.

2. Rent Increases Must Be Reasonable and Not Arbitrary.
In Nigeria, landlords are expected to consult the tenant first rather than impose a sudden new rent. You can reject a rent increase offer and negotiate. If the Landlord insists, allow him serve the necessary notices while he files an eviction suit in court. Take that time to find an alternative apartment and leave the apartment. I am certain that will take months. If the Landlord is an aggressive one, get a lawyer to establish your notice rights. You might still live in that apartment for months. The only instance you are liable to pay mesne profits, is when you are in arrears of rent.

3. What You Should Do Right Now
a. Document Everything
Original rent agreement (even if verbal or written)
All messages between you and the landlord. WhatsApp preferably.
The text/call on 13th November and dates you tried agreeing on 600k
Any messages from the landlord’s brother
This is evidence if it goes to court or police.
b. Ask for a Written Notice
You can send a polite written message (SMS/WhatsApp) saying: “I acknowledge your rent review proposal. I cannot pay ₦700,000. We agreed ₦600,000. I am prepared to discuss fair terms. Please provide a written notice of eviction if you intend to proceed, as required by law.”
This helps show you’re acting reasonably and documenting attempts to communicate.
c. Don’t Move Out Immediately
Unless you receive a formal written eviction notice followed by a court order, you do not have to leave just because he told you to.
d. Report Illegal Actions
If the landlord attempts to:
✔ Lock you out
✔ Cut off utilities (water/electricity)
✔ Remove doors or personal property
✔ Harass you or threaten you, then that could be considered illegal eviction or harassment, which is actionable in court and can involve police intervention.

4. If the landlord takes you to court:
- You’ll receive a court notice and summons. You will firstly be given 7days to vacate the premises, that does not mean you MUST quit immediately. Then you will be served the summons thereafter.
- You can file a defence, showing your rent was being negotiated and you are paying rent.
- Courts typically require landlords to prove a valid reason for eviction (like unpaid rent or breach of agreement).

The options are yours. Good evening.