Tenant Cries Out Over Strict Landlord Rules in Abuja Compound

A frustrated tenant has taken to social media to lament the “unbearable” living conditions in his rented apartment, describing how his landlord and landlady’s excessive rules have made life miserable for his family.

Posting under the username Obavoh, the tenant detailed a long list of restrictive regulations that he and other tenants must obey in the compound. According to him, the landlords, whom everyone is compelled to call “Daddy and Mummy,” enforce a strict daily routine that includes mandatory morning devotion at 5:30 a.m., strict cleaning schedules, and curfews.

“We must wake up by 5:30 a.m. for compound prayers. Each room takes turns to sweep the compound and wash the toilets morning, afternoon, and evening,” he wrote.

The tenant added that tenants are forbidden from frying palm oil because the landlady claims to have asthma. Even when she is not around, the rule still applies. Cooking with gas is also banned — only kerosene or charcoal stoves are allowed.

Another controversial rule is the 9:00 p.m. gate lockdown, where the landlord reportedly uses a special padlock that only he controls. Anyone returning after that time is locked out for the night.

“God help you if you’re not inside by 9 p.m. You will knock, but nobody will open,” Obavoh lamented.

The tenant, who lives in a single room with his wife and seven children, said the lack of privacy has also caused tension. When he and his wife tried to share private moments by bathing together early in the morning, the landlord allegedly summoned a compound meeting to reprimand them.

“He said it was immoral. But how do you expect me to be romantic with seven children in one room?” he added.

Other restrictions include a ban on “worldly” music and loud sounds, forcing his children to stay quiet and avoid playing in the compound.

Regretting his decision to pay one and a half years’ rent upfront, Obavoh said he only agreed to the terms because no landlord was willing to rent to a large family of nine.

“We still have eight months left on the rent. My wife complains every day. My children are not happy. If not for insecurity, I would have moved them back to the village,” he said.

His post has since sparked massive reactions online, with many sympathizing with him and criticizing landlords who impose excessive control over tenants’ private lives.

Some users, however, pointed out that the man’s large family size might have limited his housing options. One commenter wrote, “You are your own problem. You no get money but you born seven children.”

Another added humorously, “Na Deeper Life members be that landlord and landlady.”

Many advised him to endure the situation until his rent expires and to prioritize finding a self-contained apartment next time.

Others noted that the incident reflects a broader issue faced by tenants in Nigeria — where landlords often impose personal or religious rules that make life uncomfortable for renters.

As one user concluded, “This is why some people avoid houses where the landlord lives in the same compound. Peace of mind no get price.”