The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, touted as a flagship initiative to boost Nigeria’s economy and infrastructure, has devolved into a scandalous debacle. Diaspora investors, under the Association of Nigerian Diaspora Investors (ANDI), have levied damning accusations against Minister of Works, David Umahi, alleging illegal deviation and selective demolition of their properties at Okun Ajah Winhomes Estate, Lagos. This sordid affair exposes a labyrinthine web of corruption, favoritism, and blatant disregard for the law.
A Betrayal of Trust
The diaspora investors, comprising mostly Nigerians living abroad, had repatriated funds to contribute to Nigeria’s economic revival. Their faith in the country’s potential was palpable, as they undertook comprehensive due diligence, ensuring their properties had requisite certificates, including occupancy permits and official clearance from the coastal road right of way. However, the Ministry of Works’ actions has shattered this trust, leaving investors feeling victimised and abandoned.
Corruption and Cronyism
The allegations against Minister Umahi raise pressing questions about corruption and cronyism within the Ministry of Works. Why did the minister initially approve the original alignment, only to reverse his decision later? What role did bribery play in diverting the coastal road away from other developers’ properties, such as Ocean Bay estate? The selective demolition of Winhomes properties, despite having official clearance, reeks of injustice and disparity in treatment.
Ecological Concerns and Lack of Transparency
The diversion of the coastal road, without considering ecological impacts, may exacerbate erosion in the area. This lack of expert consideration further complicates the situation, highlighting the Ministry’s disregard for environmental concerns. The investors’ pleas for transparency and communication fell on deaf ears, as the demolition was carried out without prior engagement or legal notification.
Diaspora Disillusionment
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway debacle has shattered the faith of diaspora investors in Nigeria’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for lawful investments. The actions of Minister Umahi and the Ministry of Works have sent a chilling message: law-abiding citizens will be sacrificed for the interests of the powerful and corrupt.
Systemic Failure
This scandal is symptomatic of a broader systemic failure. Nigeria’s institutions, designed to protect citizens’ rights and promote transparency, have failed. The Ministry of Works’ actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the law, while the government’s inaction perpetuates impunity.
Call to Action
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must intervene, conducting a thorough investigation into the alleged wrongdoing, as investors wait anxiously for a resolution that not only restores their rights but also reaffirms the government’s commitment to creating a supportive environment that encourages lawful investments and safeguards the interests of all citizens, both home and abroad.
- Idowu Arogbonlo wrote from Lagos
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