A group of Nigerian real estate investors based in the diaspora has petitioned the House of Representatives, calling for a thorough investigation into the alleged illegal diversion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road in Okun Ajah by the Federal Ministry of Works. This action comes in response to the demolition of their properties in the area, which they claim was carried out without regard for the original gazetted alignment of the road.
The investors have accused the Minister of Works of abusing his authority to intimidate and harass citizens whose buildings were affected. They assert that the diversion has not only resulted in significant property loss—including developments like the WinHomes Estate, which attracted substantial foreign direct investment (FDI)—but has also caused considerable hardship for the local community.
Femi Adekoya, one of the affected investors, expressed deep concern about the actions of the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Controller of Works. He stated, “The diversion of the road has caused immense hardship to our community, and we demand justice.”
The group has urged the Chairman of the Committee on Works in the House of Representatives to investigate the situation and hold those responsible accountable. One investor, whose property was demolished, highlighted the deceptive narratives being circulated to justify the diversion, stating that claims of over 2,000 houses needing demolition were exaggerated.
He further criticized the misinformation surrounding the presence of a “marine cable,” which he claims is far removed from the Coastal route in Okun Ajah. He accused the violators of the original master plan of spreading falsehoods to gain favor with Minister of Works, David Umahi, thereby attempting to legitimize their actions at the expense of law-abiding citizens.
The investors’ petition underscores the growing concern over land use policies and the need for transparent governance in infrastructure development in Nigeria.