Landlord Charged For Removing Tenant’s Roof Over Unpaid Rent

LAGOS, NIGERIA – A 51-year-old landlord, Abolaji Ismahil, has been brought before the Surulere Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos for allegedly dismantling the roof of his tenant’s apartment.

According to the Prosecution Counsel, Insp. Courage Ekhueorohan, Ismahil, along with others who are currently at large, committed the offense on December 13, 2023, at No 40, Kekereowo St., Itire, Surulere, Lagos.

It was alleged that Ismahil removed ten zinc roofing sheets from the complainant, Lawal Ismail’s apartment after numerous failed attempts to collect rent.

Ekhueorohan stated that Ismahil also stands accused of stealing the complainant’s HP laptops, a gold chain, and two wristwatches from the apartment.

The charges against Ismahil include conspiracy, breach of public peace, and theft, contravening Sections 168, 287, and 411 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015.

Ismahil, residing in the Mushin area of Lagos, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The Magistrate, Mr. Ganiyu Tiamiyu, granted Ismahil bail in the sum of N100,000, with two responsible sureties in like sum.

He mandated that the sureties’ addresses be verified by the court and scheduled the case for mention on March 13.