Public Outcry Over Sudden Rising Cost of Housing in Jos

Jos, Plateau State – A growing wave of concern is sweeping across Plateau State as fraudulent housing practices in Jos reach alarming levels, sparking calls for urgent government intervention. A concerned citizen, A. Ponsel Nancwat, has issued a passionate plea to the Honourable Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, urging swift action against what he describes as exploitative and unethical practices by real estate agents and landlords.

The issue gained widespread attention following a social media post exposing a three-bedroom apartment in Jos being advertised for an astonishing ₦3.5 million. Nancwat condemned the exorbitant pricing, labeling it as a form of financial exploitation that is making affordable housing increasingly unattainable for the average citizen.“This is the highest form of exploitation, bordering on fraud. It is a clear indication of systemic failure in housing regulation within the city,” he stated.

According to Nancwat, unregulated and opportunistic real estate agents have been inflating housing prices without regard for the economic realities of residents, including workers, students, and families struggling to make ends meet. He pointed out that while larger cities like Lagos have government-imposed regulations to control housing prices, Jos lacks such measures, leaving tenants vulnerable to exploitation.

In his statement, Nancwat urged the Plateau State government to take immediate and decisive steps, including:Launching an investigation into fraudulent real estate practices in the state.Identifying and prosecuting individuals engaged in housing fraud.Implementing clear regulatory frameworks to control rent pricing and protect tenants.He stressed that failure to act could lead to worsening living conditions and further economic hardship for residents.

“I pray, hope, and trust that the government of Plateau State will prioritize this issue as a matter of emergency and take decisive steps to restore fairness and accountability in the housing sector,” he concluded.

The call for action has sparked reactions from various stakeholders, with many residents echoing concerns over the rising cost of rent in Jos. The Plateau State government is yet to respond to the demands, but pressure continues to mount for immediate intervention to curb the crisis.

As public outrage grows, housing advocates and civil society organizations are expected to engage authorities in discussions on implementing policies that protect renters and ensure affordability in the housing market. Meanwhile, residents have been encouraged to report cases of fraudulent real estate dealings to relevant authorities.The unfolding situation underscores the urgent need for a structured and regulated housing sector in Plateau State to prevent exploitation and ensure that decent housing remains accessible to all.