Rivers Police Arrest Ghanaian Landlord Over Alleged Removal of Tenant’s Roof in Obio/Akpor

The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a Ghanaian landlord, Mr Samuel Frimpong, following allegations that he forcibly removed the roof of his tenant’s apartment in Mgbuoba, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Akahi News gathered that the incident occurred at Chief Chike Street, Mgbuoba, where the tenant, Mr Anozie Tochukwu, has reportedly lived since January 2024.

Dispute Over Vacating Deadline

According to information obtained by Akahi News, the dispute arose after the landlord allegedly instructed the tenant to vacate the apartment within a two-week grace period. Tochukwu, however, maintained that he had been consistent with rent payments and had not defaulted on his tenancy obligations.

He explained that in late 2025, the landlord informed him that the building would undergo renovations and that his lease, due to expire in January 2026, would not be renewed.

“To give myself time to relocate, I showed proof of payment for a new apartment on February 1 and asked for 14 days to move,” Tochukwu said.

Roof Allegedly Removed, Property Destroyed

Tochukwu alleged that despite the agreement, the landlord took drastic action on the morning of February 3.

“My wife called me to say the landlord had taken the roof off our home,” he recounted.

Akahi News learnt that hours after the roof was allegedly removed, heavy rainfall hit the area, flooding the apartment and destroying several household items.

The tenant further disclosed that his pregnant wife and their two young children were left exposed to harsh weather conditions, with no immediate shelter.

Losses Estimated at ₦25 Million

According to the tenant, properties worth approximately ₦25 million were either destroyed or lost as a result of the incident.

Items reportedly damaged include electronic appliances, furniture, important personal certificates, books, medications, and savings accumulated over nine months.

Akahi News observed that the incident has sparked public concern over alleged self-help eviction methods and the safety of tenants within the state.

Police Confirm Arrest, Investigation Ongoing

Confirming the development, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the suspect has been taken into custody.

“The landlord has been arrested and is currently in police custody. Investigations are ongoing, and he may be arraigned after the process is complete,” she stated.

According to Akahi News, the police assured that the matter would be thoroughly investigated in line with the law, as authorities continue to caution landlords against taking unlawful actions when resolving tenancy disputes.

Growing Calls Against Self-Help Evictions

Observers say the case highlights ongoing concerns around landlord-tenant relations in urban areas, where disputes over tenancy termination often escalate due to lack of legal recourse or patience.

As investigations continue, Akahi News will monitor developments and provide updates on any legal proceedings arising from the case.

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By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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