David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has called on media outlets and civil society organizations to conduct a comprehensive investigation into alleged land fraud and the purported loss of N250 million in diaspora remittances invested in real estate by Winhomes Properties. The company claims that the federal government demolished its multi-million dollar assets along the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway corridor to facilitate the officially approved route of the highway project.
Umahi emphasized that President Bola Tinubu prioritizes the public good over individual land rights in cases involving land acquisition for infrastructure development. This stance is particularly pertinent to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway initiative, which has encountered resistance from property developers and some landowners situated along the planned corridor.
He further explained that the federal government views national progress as paramount, superseding private land ownership when it comes to such large-scale projects.
According to Umahi, Winhomes Global Properties has been actively engaging with foreign media and diaspora communities to undermine the Ministry of Works’ efforts on the coastal highway project. The company alleges that the Nigerian government destroyed diaspora investments exceeding $250 million.
The minister cautioned diaspora investors against resorting to intimidation, baseless accusations, and sensationalism regarding the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. He assured that the Ministry operates with transparency and welcomes thorough examination and accountability.
During an inspection of Winhomes’ land at Chainage 18 of the coastal highway, Umahi clarified that the site consists solely of undeveloped land without any buildings or structures, thereby disputing claims of a demolished $250 million diaspora investment.
Addressing journalists at the location, Umahi stated, “As evident here, there is no $250 million diaspora investment present. This is merely an attempt at cyberbullying aimed at discrediting the Ministry and undermining the minister’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s road infrastructure.”
This inspection followed allegations made by Mrs. Stella Okengwu, Chairperson of Winhomes Global Services, who accused the Ministry of Works of land fraud, failure to pay compensation, and the destruction of her $250 million investment along the coastal corridor.
Okengwu also claimed that Ministry officials solicited bribes to halt the demolition of her property and that the originally approved alignment of the coastal highway was altered due to corrupt practices by certain developers seeking route adjustments.
