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The Student Union Government (SUG) of (MOUAU) has participated in a Public Hearing organized by Abia State House of Assembly on a proposed law seeking to regulate real estate transactions across Abia State.
The hearing, which focused on the “Bill for a Law to Regulate Real Estate Transactions in Abia State and for Other Connected Purposes,” brought together key stakeholders in the housing sector, including representatives of tertiary institutions. The SUG President of MOUAU, Hon. Comr. Nwogu Bright Chinonyerem, represented students at the session.
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In solidarity with the SUG Presidents of (ABSU) and , the student leaders presented a unified position reflecting the concerns of students, who constitute a significant proportion of tenants in host communities across the state.
Addressing the Assembly, the student representatives emphasized the urgent need to regulate excessive agency and agreement fees often imposed on tenants. They also called for measures to protect students from arbitrary rent increments, particularly in off-campus accommodations.
The SUG further advocated for mandatory and transparent tenancy documentation to safeguard students from exploitation, as well as the establishment of accessible and affordable dispute resolution mechanisms tailored to address tenancy-related conflicts involving students.
While commending the proposed establishment of a Real Estate Regulatory Authority as a step in the right direction, the student body stressed the importance of incorporating clear tenant-protection provisions within the law, with special consideration for students who often face financial constraints.
The SUG leadership reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that student interests are represented beyond campus boundaries, noting that policies affecting housing and welfare have direct implications on students’ academic stability and overall well-being.
The engagement underscores growing student participation in policy discussions at the state level, as student leaders continue to advocate for reforms that promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in the housing sector across Abia State.