The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has revealed plans for the demolition of 750 houses situated along the Lagos-Calabar Coast Highway.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, Umahi clarified that the demolitions align with the gazetted route, aiming to make room for the extensive infrastructure project.
Umahi’s announcement was met with discontent from affected landlords who voiced concerns over the inadequacy of government compensation, asserting that it failed to reflect their investments in the properties earmarked for demolition.
In an effort to address the growing discontent, Umahi disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had been invited to inaugurate the project on Sunday, May 26, 2024. He emphasised the potential economic benefits of the coastal highway, highlighting its significance in boosting tourism and facilitating trade.
However, amidst the anticipation of the project’s inauguration, grievances over compensation persisted. Property owners expressed dismay over what they deemed as meager compensation, citing it as insufficient compared to their investments.
During a question and answer session, only 10 property owners were compensated, further fueling frustrations among those awaiting adequate recompense.
Among the dissatisfied property owners was Cajetan Onu, President of Total Energies Staff Cooperative Society and Total Energies Staff Club, who urged for a reassessment of the compensation process to ensure fairness.
Similarly, Olanrewaju Ojo of Leisure Games lamented receiving a paltry sum of N1.3m, equating it to a week’s worth of earnings, while another anonymous property owner stated that the compensation received was a mere fraction of their investment.
Paul Osemele criticized the government’s valuation process, claiming that compensation rates did not reflect market values, resulting in significant financial losses for property owners.
In response to mounting discontent, Umahi defended the government’s compensation efforts, asserting fairness in their approach.
Umahi previously announced a compensation package totaling N2.75bn for affected property owners, but discontent persists as many feel they have not received fair remuneration.
The construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, spanning 700 kilometers and traversing nine states, commenced in March. The project aims to enhance connectivity and economic development along the coastal regions of Nigeria.
