Legal Analysis of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Private Tenancy Agreements in Kaduna State

Persons with disabilities face unique forms of discrimination in the private rental housing market, including refusal to rent, failure to provide reasonable accommodation, and discriminatory lease terms, yet their rights in this context remain inadequately protected in Nigeria. This study examines the legal rights of persons with disabilities in private tenancy agreements in Kaduna State, North West Nigeria, evaluating the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, the Kaduna State Disability Law, and tenancy legislation. Using an empirical methodology, the research surveys 150 persons with disabilities and 50 landlords in Kaduna North and Kaduna South, complemented by doctrinal analysis of applicable statutory and case law. Findings reveal significant gaps between legislative protections and lived experiences, with most landlords unaware of their legal obligations and most disabled tenants unaware of their legal rights. The study further documents cases of unlawful lease terminations, refusals to install disability-access modifications, and informal exclusion from high-demand residential areas. The research examines comparative approaches in South Africa and the United Kingdom and recommends mandatory disability-access standards in residential properties, public awareness campaigns, and enforcement powers for the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Keywords: disability rights, tenancy agreements, discrimination, Kaduna State, accessible housing