In a recent development, a 64-year-old landlord, Samuel Famakinwa, was brought before an Ejigbo Magistrates’ Court in Lagos on Wednesday.
He is facing charges for allegedly disconnecting the electricity and water supply to a tenant's apartment, an act that has led to a three-count charge bordering on breach of peace and unlawful disconnection.
The prosecutor, ASP Benedict Aigbokhan, informed the court that the defendant committed the offences sometime in October 2023, at No. 9, Asungbolu St., Igando, Lagos. According to Aigbokhan, Famakinwa unlawfully disconnected the electricity cable and water pipes supplying the apartment of the complainant, Mr Bolaji Eniola, who is a tenant of the defendant.
Aigbokhan further stated that Famakinwa's actions were likely to cause a breach of the peace. He pointed out that the offences violated Sections 168 (1) (d), 247, and 340 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
Despite the charges, Famakinwa pleaded not guilty. In response, Magistrate K. A. Ariyo granted him bail in the sum of N50,000 with one surety in like sum. Ariyo ordered that the surety should be gainfully employed and show evidence of tax payment to the Lagos State Government. The case has been adjourned until March 11 for mention.
This case serves as a reminder of the legal implications of landlords taking matters into their own hands and highlights the importance of following due process in landlord-tenant disputes.