Police arrest Ghanaian landlord for removing tenant’s roof in Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a Ghanaian national, Mr Samuel Frimpong, for allegedly removing the roof of his tenant’s apartment in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state.

The incident reportedly occurred at No. 7 Chief Chike Street, Mgbuoba, where the tenant, Mr Anozie Tochukwu, lives with his family.

It was gathered that the landlord allegedly took the action after the tenant failed to vacate the apartment within a two-week grace period.

Recounting his ordeal, Tochukwu said he moved into the apartment in January 2024 and had consistently paid his rent. He explained that in late 2025, his landlord informed him of plans to renovate the building and asked him not to renew his lease, which was due to expire in January 2026.

According to him, he had secured a new apartment and requested 14 days to relocate.

“On February 1, I showed him proof of payment for the new apartment and pleaded for 14 days, which would end on February 14,” he said.

However, he alleged that on the morning of February 3, his landlord removed the roof of the apartment while his family was still inside.

“My wife called to inform me that the landlord had de-roofed the house. A few hours later, heavy rain fell and all our property, documents and certificates were exposed. My pregnant wife and two young children were also exposed to the weather,” he said.

Tochukwu claimed the incident damaged property worth about ₦25 million, including household appliances, furniture, documents, certificates and personal belongings. He also alleged that some items went missing.

Detectives from the Ozuoba Police Division reportedly arrested the landlord after the matter was reported.

The spokesperson for the state police command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the arrest, saying investigations are ongoing.

“Yes, I can confirm. The landlord has been arrested. He is with us and the investigation is ongoing. He may be arraigned after the investigation,” she said.

Meanwhile, a legal practitioner with the human rights group, Lawyers Watch for Justice International Initiative, Raymond Okocha, condemned the action, describing it as unlawful and a violation of due process.

He said the landlord bypassed legal procedures required for eviction, including serving statutory notices and obtaining a court order.

“Under Nigerian law, self-help is not permitted. You cannot evict a tenant by destroying property. Due process through the courts must be followed,” Okocha said.

He added that the act could amount to malicious damage and a violation of the family’s right to dignity, calling for the law to take its course.