Lagos coastal project: Diasporan real estate investors reject compensation, seek Tinubu’s intervention
Diasporan real estate investors on Friday urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in what they described as illegal activities of the Federal Ministry of Works at OkunAjah, Lagos State.
At a press conference in Lagos, the group through Engineer Stella Okengwu, Dr Arinze Onwumelu, Dr Kimberly Stark, Dr Charles Mba, Mr Jekwu Onwughalu, and Mr Shadrack Oyibo advised the works ministry to stop undermining the Lagos State Properties Protection Law, 2016, enacted to curb forceful entry, illegal occupation, and fraudulent conducts related to landed properties.
Diasporan real estate Investors in a press statement accused the ministry of facilitating compensation for a new alignment that deviates from the original gazetted alignment marked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2006.
Recall the group in October 9, 2024, had expressed deep concern over the demolition of WinHomes Global Estate in Okun Ajah, Lagos. This development they said linked to the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project.
They alleged the Federal Ministry of Works, under Minister David Umahi, had encroached upon their legally acquired properties without due process.
However, the group on Friday listed their key demands which are as follows: “Respect for Original Alignment: Adhere to the 2006 gazetted alignment marked by President Tinubu.
“Compensation: We don’t want compensation but demand that the right thing should be done. We also urge the government to align themselves with other things that border on the welfare of the citizens and not to inflict pains on the citizens.
“Protection of Property Rights: Uphold the Lagos State Properties Protection Law, 2016, to safeguard property owners and investors.
“We call on the relevant authorities to investigate these allegations and take prompt action to address the concerns of WinHomes Global Services Nigeria and other affected stakeholders”.
Calling on Tinubu, the group opined: “We express our deep concern over the alleged illegal activities and impunity by the Federal Ministry of Works in OkunAjah. Despite having governor’s consent, CO, and coastal roads right clearance, the ministry is facilitating compensation for a new alignment that deviates from the original gazetted alignment marked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2006.
“This action undermines the Lagos State Properties Protection Law, 2016, enacted to curb forceful entry, illegal occupation, and fraudulent conducts related to landed properties. The law aims to protect property owners and investors from harassment and exploitation by land grabbers.
“We urge President Tinubu to intervene and ensure that the original alignment is respected. The Lagos State government has made significant strides in addressing land-related issues, and it is essential that federal agencies align with these efforts”.