By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: A growing dispute between a tenant and his landlord, a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has sparked concerns over tenant rights in Asaba, Delta State. The tenant, Kenneth Orusi, has petitioned the police, accusing the landlord, Ogbogho Sunday, of illegally cutting off his water and electricity supply without justification.
According to the petition dated March 10, 2025, Orusi alleged that Sunday deliberately disconnected essential utilities to his apartment, causing him significant hardship. He claimed that the landlord moved the water pump switch, which was previously accessible to all tenants, into his private apartment, effectively preventing others from accessing clean water.
“This is a clear abuse of power and a violation of my basic rights as a tenant,” Orusi stated in his complaint. “I have been forced to seek alternative means to get water and electricity, which has cost me a lot financially and emotionally.”
The dispute has drawn the attention of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the “B” Division in Asaba, where the petition was submitted. Law enforcement authorities have begun an investigation into the allegations, with a stamped acknowledgment indicating that the case is under review.
A representative of Outpost Integrity Services Ltd, the estate management company overseeing the property, Prince Amadi, has provided a statement to the police in response to the allegations. However, as of the time of this report, Sunday has yet to respond to the police invitation.
Orusi is demanding an immediate restoration of his water and power supply, as well as compensation for the financial losses incurred due to the landlord’s alleged actions. He also urged authorities to ensure that the water pumping system is returned to its original location to prevent future disputes.
Legal experts warn that cases like this, if left unchecked, could set a dangerous precedent where landlords arbitrarily cut off essential utilities, leaving tenants in distress. Many are now looking to law enforcement and tenant protection agencies to act swiftly and decisively to resolve the matter.
As the investigation unfolds, residents and legal analysts are closely watching the case to see whether justice will prevail or if the issue will be swept under the carpet. For now, the Asaba community remains on edge, waiting for the next development in this landlord-tenant standoff.