By Nna Anulumadu
As the economic hardship in the country continues to worsen, landlords have been increasing house rent by up to 100%, further exacerbating the struggles of tenants. In response to this trend, Rev. Fr. Alex Ojo Anosike, a priest of the Onitsha Archdiocese, has urged landlords to reconsider their actions and avoid worsening the plight of their tenants.
Fr. Anosike emphasized that being a house owner is not solely the result of human effort, but rather a blessing from God. “It is the Lord who gives the grace and wealth to build a house,” he said. “Therefore, landlords should recognize that their privilege is not just a result of their own hard work, but also of God’s blessings.”
He appealed to landlords to use their position to alleviate the suffering of their tenants, rather than adding to their burdens. “In this difficult economic time, it is not right to increase the price of house rent,” Fr. Anosike said. “Landlords should consider the struggles of their tenants and show compassion. By not hiking the price of rent, they can help reduce the financial burden on their tenants.”
Fr. Anosike’s advice is rooted in the Christian values of empathy, kindness, and generosity. He encouraged landlords to reflect on their actions and consider the impact they have on others. “As Christians, we are called to love our neighbors and treat them with kindness,” he said. “Landlords should see their tenants as their neighbors and treat them with compassion.”
The priest’s words of wisdom come at a time when many Nigerians are struggling to make ends meet. The economic downturn has led to increased poverty, unemployment, and hardship. In this context, Fr. Anosike’s appeal to landlords to show mercy and compassion to their tenants is a timely reminder of the importance of empathy and kindness.
As the Bible says, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). Fr. Anosike’s message is a call to action for landlords to live out this biblical principle and treat their tenants with the love and respect they deserve.
