Can My Landlord Force Me to Leave Before My Rent Expires?

Question:
“My landlord accused me of overcrowding and reported me to the police. Even though my rent is due on November 1st, 2025, he said he’ll refund me 5 months’ rent and wants me out before the end of May. The police called me to come for a resolution. When I got there, the landlord didn’t show up, but the officer told me to write an undertaking that I’ll vacate by May 31st. I felt compelled. What can I do? Can I be forced to leave?”

Answer:
First of all, thank you for reaching out. What you’re experiencing is something many tenants in Nigeria have faced at some point. Landlord-tenant disputes are common, but there are laws to protect both parties. Here’s what you need to know based on your case:

1. Your Rent Agreement Is Still Valid Until November 2025

If your rent is valid until November 1st, 2025, then legally, you are entitled to occupy the apartment until that date unless a court orders otherwise. A landlord cannot unilaterally evict you just because they’ve changed their mind or accused you of something — especially without following due process.

2. Allegations Like ‘Overcrowding’ Must Be Proven

Accusing you of having too many visitors or overcrowding doesn’t automatically make your tenancy illegal. Unless there’s a written clause in your tenancy agreement restricting visitors or occupancy numbers, it becomes difficult to enforce such a claim. And even if there’s a breach, eviction must still go through a court process.

3. Police Are Not Landlords or Eviction Agents

This is very important: The Nigerian Police Force is not authorized to enforce tenancy disputes unless there is a criminal component (like violence, property damage, or trespass). Using the police to intimidate tenants is illegal and amounts to harassment.

The Police Act (2020) and several legal precedents prohibit officers from meddling in civil matters like rent disagreements. If no crime has been committed, police should not be compelling you to sign anything or threatening you with jail.

4. That ‘Letter of Undertaking’ May Work Against You

By signing a letter of undertaking that you’ll leave by May 31st, even if you did so under pressure, you might have unknowingly waived your rights to stay until November. In legal terms, you gave your consent, and this can be used against you if the matter ever reaches court.

That said, you can still make a case that the letter was signed under duress, especially if there are witnesses or if you raise it immediately with the right legal authority.

5. What You Can Do Next

Here’s how to protect yourself:

• Consult a lawyer immediately. They can write a formal letter to your landlord asserting your rights and declaring the undertaking invalid due to duress.

• Document everything. Keep records of conversations, receipts of rent paid, and your visit to the police station.

• Avoid confrontation but also don’t vacate in fear if your rent is still valid. Let the law take its course.

• Report police intimidation to the Police Complaint Response Unit via their social media handles or website.

• If you eventually agree to leave, ensure your landlord refunds your balance in writing and with a clear date of payment.

In Summary:

• Your landlord cannot evict you before your rent expires without a court order.

• The police have no right to compel or threaten you in tenancy issues.

• Always seek legal counsel before signing any document under pressure.

• You have rights as a tenant, and standing up for them is not disrespect—it’s lawful.

Need Help with a Landlord or Tenancy Issue?
If you’re going through a similar issue or unsure of what steps to take, feel free to send a message via WhatsApp.