A landlord in Ghana has warned his tenants that anyone who joins a planned rent protest against landlords will be forced to move out of his house.
In a video circulating on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), on October, 25th, 2025 the man, who said he owns houses in Agege, Pambros, Adjen Kotoku, and Amasaman, spoke in a serious tone. He warned that tenants in his houses should not take part in the demonstration being planned against landlords over high rent charges.
“This message goes to my tenants at Agege, Pambros, Adjen Kotoku, and Amasaman,” the landlord said.
“I have heard there will be a demonstration against landlords in Ghana. If any of my tenants dare join, you will move out of my house that same day. Rent Control does not buy iron rods, cement, or blocks for us to build houses. If you want to protest, go and protest against those selling building materials, not landlords. Don’t mess with me,” he warned.
His comments, which sparked heated reactions online, highlight the growing tension between property owners and tenants struggling to cope with Ghana’s housing crisis. Many tenants have complained that landlords are exploiting the economic situation by charging high rent in advance, often one or two years upfront, making it nearly impossible for low-income earners to secure decent housing.
The landlord, however, defended himself and others in the same position, saying rent increases are driven by high construction costs, not greed. He argued that the real problem lies with suppliers who continue to raise the prices of cement, iron rods, and other materials used in building homes.
“If you have any concern, go to Rent Control and tell them to speak to those selling the materials to reduce their prices,” he emphasized.
His remarks come at a time when public discussions about housing affordability and tenant rights are gaining momentum. Ghana’s Rent Control Act of 1986 (PNDCL 138) limits landlords to collecting no more than six months’ rent in advance. It also requires any rent increase to be approved by the Rent Control Department and protects tenants from being evicted without due process.
However, enforcement of these laws remains weak. Many landlords still demand one or two years’ rent before renting out their properties, while some tenants, afraid of losing their homes, comply despite the financial strain.
Housing advocates have repeatedly called on the government to review and strengthen rent regulations, arguing that the current laws are outdated and no longer reflect the realities of Ghana’s housing market.
As the viral video continues to circulate, it has ignited debate about fairness in the rental system, whether landlords are victims of economic pressure or contributors to the housing burden faced by ordinary Ghanaians.
