Kogi Residents Struggle as Housing Costs Skyrocket due to Influx of 'Yahoo Boys'

Residents of Kogi State are grappling with a severe housing crisis exacerbated by the influx of internet fraudsters, commonly known as 'Yahoo Boys.'

These individuals, capable of paying exorbitant rents, have driven up housing costs, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to afford accommodation.

The situation is dire, with the rent for a single room doubling from N40,000 to between N80,000 and N100,000, and a one-room and parlour self-contained unit skyrocketing from N120,000-N150,000 to N350,000-N450,000.

Abdullahi Umar, a resident of Adankolo, expressed his frustration, stating, “It is alarming the way landlords are increasing the prices of house rent. In Nigeria today, we are faced with hardship; many of us can’t send our children to school again. Now, house rent has hit the roof.

Who did we offend in this country?”

The problem is compounded by the lack of new housing estates from recent administrations, leaving many without affordable options. Hajia Mulikat Adomu, another resident, urged the government to intervene, saying, “Government should please come to our aid.

I believe when the government builds housing estates for residents and civil servants at a subsidized rate, it will ameliorate the sufferings of the masses.”

Landlords, motivated by the higher payments offered by 'Yahoo Boys,' often prefer renting to these individuals over law-abiding citizens. Mr. Peter Suleiman, an estate manager, highlighted this issue, noting, “It is quite unfortunate that landlords in Lokoja and its environs prefer to give their houses to Yahoo Boys instead of law-abiding citizens.”

In response, the Kogi State government has issued warnings to landlords against leasing properties to internet fraudsters, threatening to demolish houses used for illicit activities.

The State Security Adviser, Navy Commander Jerry Omodara (rtd), emphasized the government's stance, warning, “Security agencies will soon go after houses and hotels used by Yahoo Boys. Appropriate sanctions will be handed to affected landlords and hospitality facilities.”