Nottingham councillor Faith Gakanje-Ajala has been told to pay more than £10,000 for failing to license an HMO.

Gakanje-Ajala, a member of the Nottingham People’s Alliance opposition group, was found guilty in her absence at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court, reports the BBC, after being prosecuted by Nottingham Council’s safer housing team. Landlords in the city are required to get a licence under the council's additional licensing scheme.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) was informed by the court that she was fined £7,500 and ordered to pay a £2,000 victim surcharge and costs of £1,037.

Her party confirmed that Gakanje-Ajala, who stated her intention to appeal the decision, has been suspended pending further investigation. She has been contacted for comment.

Leader

Kirsty Jones, the leader of the NPA, says: "On Monday evening, we were made aware of the legal action taken against councillor Faith Gakanje‑Ajala in her personal capacity, and of her stated intention to appeal the decision.

"To ensure due process, Nottingham People's Alliance Group has taken the decision to suspend councillor Gakanje‑Ajala from the group pending further investigation."

In April 2024, a response to a Freedom of Information request revealed Gakanje-Ajala had council tax arrears totalling £4,295.69, the LDRS said. She denied she owed the council money at the time.

Council leader Neghat Khan (pictured right) says: "This prosecution sends a clear message, that no one is above the law, regardless of your status."

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