Lagos deputy governor faces backlash over advice to young workers struggling with high rents

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, has sparked controversy after advising young workers struggling with high rents to consider living with their parents or relatives, according to a report by DAILY POST.

Hamzat made the remarks during a question-and-answer session on Nigeria Info FM on August 20, while responding to how a 22-year-old earning ₦100,000 monthly could afford a self-contained apartment costing about ₦1 million annually. He urged young workers not to feel pressured into expensive apartments immediately after securing employment, warning that spending more than 40 per cent of income on rent was too high.

The comments have divided residents, with some describing the advice as unrealistic and insensitive, citing workers who support family members or live far from their parents, while others argued it was practical financial guidance. Opposition figures, including AAC governorship candidate Oluwadamola Sol-Nuyi, criticised the remarks, insisting government must address affordable housing rather than shift responsibility onto individuals.