Tenancy Dispute Turns Sour: Landlord Detained After Removing Tenant’s Roof in Rivers
The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a Ghanaian national, Mr. Frimpong Samuel, for allegedly removing the roof of an apartment occupied by his tenant, Mr. Anozie Tochukwu. The incident, which occurred in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, has sparked concerns regarding the use of "self-help" in resolving tenancy disputes and the violation of tenant rights.
Details of the Incident
The incident took place at No. 7 Chief Chike Street, NTA Road, Mgbuoba. According to reports, a disagreement ensued following the expiration of Mr. Tochukwu’s rent in January 2026. The landlord had reportedly issued a notice to vacate in late 2025, stating his intention to renovate the property.
Despite the expiration of the lease, the tenant had reportedly pleaded for a 14-day extension to finalize arrangements for a new apartment. However, on the morning of 3 February 2026, the landlord allegedly proceeded to remove the roof of the occupied apartment. The situation was worsened by heavy rainfall shortly thereafter, which resulted in significant damage to the tenant’s household appliances, furniture, and personal documents.
Impact on Occupants
The tenant, Mr. Tochukwu, stated that the deroofing occurred while his pregnant wife and two young children were inside the apartment, exposing them to the elements. In addition to property damage caused by the rain, the tenant alleged that several items were missing following the incident.
Police Action and Legal Commentary
Confirming the arrest, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the Rivers State Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, stated that the suspect is currently in custody. “The landlord has been arrested and will be arraigned in court upon the completion of investigation,” she confirmed.
Legal experts and human rights advocates have condemned the landlord's actions. Mr. Raymond Okocha of the Lawyers Watch for Justice International Initiative (LAWJII) described the act as a flagrant violation of due process. He emphasized that under Nigerian law, disputes between landlords and tenants must be resolved through established legal channels, such as the courts, rather than through extrajudicial measures like self-help.
Outlook for Tenancy Disputes
The case serves as a critical reminder of the legal protections afforded to tenants, even after the expiration of a formal lease. Legal practitioners maintain that landlords must obtain a court order for eviction and are prohibited from making a property uninhabitable to force a tenant out. The suspect is expected to face charges related to malicious damage to property and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace as the investigation concludes.
