Nigerians in the diaspora have accused the Minister of Works, David Umahi, of unlawfully demolishing their N375 billion investment to make way for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. The investors, under the Association of Nigerians Diasporan Investors, are now urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene.
At a press conference in Houston, Texas, on February 23, 2025, Engr. Stella Ifeoma Okengwu, Managing Director of Winhomes Global Services Limited, read an open letter to Tinubu. The letter, titled “An Indictment of Minister Engr. David Umahi,” alleges abuse of power, illegal demolition, and unfair treatment.
Investors Claim $250 Million in Losses
According to the group, they legally acquired and developed 17.03 hectares of land in Okun Ajah, Lagos, with a $250 million (N375 billion) investment. However, they claim Umahi dismissed the property as “bare land” and ordered its demolition without due process.
“Winhomes has brought in $250 million in foreign direct investment, aligning with your Renewed Hope agenda,” Okengwu said. “Despite meeting all legal requirements, our property was targeted.”
She further alleged that in early 2024, the minister diverted the coastal road project into their land, ignoring the original government-approved route.
Call for Umahi’s Removal
The investors are now demanding that Umahi resign or be dismissed.
“We urge you, Mr. President, to take swift action to uphold the rule of law,” their letter read.
They also claimed that despite reporting the issue to the House Committee on Works and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), nothing has been done.
FG Defends Lagos-Calabar Coastal Project
The federal government began demolishing structures along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in April 2024, despite controversy. Umahi has defended the project, stating that only illegal structures were affected and that compensation has been arranged.
The N15 trillion project, spanning 700 km, is set to connect Lagos to Cross River over eight years.
With investors pushing for government intervention, all eyes are now on President Tinubu’s response to the growing dispute.
