Abandoned and Dilapidated Residential Buildings and Housing Deficit in Ekosodin, Benin City, Nigeria: A Case Study

This research article examines the relationship between abandoned and dilapidated residential buildings and housing deficit in Ekosodin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The study is based on primary field research involving 200 questionnaire respondents, interviews, direct observation and case studies of selected abandoned and dilapidated buildings. The findings indicate significant housing pressure within Ekosodin alongside the presence of underutilised and deteriorating residential structures. The study identifies construction costs, owner negligence, poor planning, low-quality materials, poor construction and inadequate maintenance among important factors associated with building abandonment and deterioration. It further examines perceived effects on property values, security, environmental conditions and housing availability. The findings suggest that rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of structurally suitable buildings may complement new housing development in the study area.