It is unfair and inhumane to ask a young professional trying to start his/her career to cough up money to pay for rent for a whole year, sometimes two years. This is the case in Nigeria today, especially Lagos where I live.

This has resulted in untold hardship in the lives of regular Lagosians and Nigerians. Having a roof over your head is a necessity and not a luxury.

The high cost of accommodation caused by this illogical payment arrangement around securing accommodation has not only led to hardship, but also associated crimes like accommodation scams, illegal evictions, illogical increment in rents etc.

I take a stand for what is fair, logical and applicable. I earn my salary monthly, I should pay my rent monthly.

Please sign this petition to the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, The Minister in charge of Housing, Babatunde Fashola and our law makers, to criminalise bulk payment of rent for any period beyond 1-3 months.

The system should work for and not against the common man. Nigeria will not change because you complained, it will change because of your action.

Thank you.