Tensions Rise as Umahi Engages Homeowners Over Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Demolitions
By Matthew Eloyi
A heated exchange unfolded on Sunday when Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, held a public engagement in Lagos with stakeholders and homeowners affected by the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project.
The meeting, held on Victoria Island, brought together federal lawmakers and affected residents to discuss ongoing infrastructure work in the area.
During the session, a woman who identified herself as a supporter of President Bola Tinubu and a campaign leader in the 2023 elections expressed frustration over the road project’s diversion through her estate, which led to the demolition of her properties.
She claimed to have had all necessary government authorisations before the demolitions took place.
In response, Minister Umahi accused the woman of organising protests to obstruct the project.
“You have been doing a lot to stop the project,” Umahi asserted.
“Listen to me, if I get further disturbances from you, there will be consequences for it. We are following the law. You are free to go to court if we are infringing on your rights,” he added.
When the woman continued speaking after her microphone was removed, Umahi directed security personnel to intervene, stating, “Security, move her out.”
The woman, undeterred, replied, “I’m a matron in Tinubu’s campaign organisation with over 5,000 members.”
Umahi acknowledged the toll the project has taken on private properties, including his own, and called for patience from affected residents.
“In Port Harcourt, my property was also involved in the construction of the East-West Road, totally demolished. In Aba, my property was also involved,” he said, emphasising that the government would comply with any court decisions.
“While the case is ongoing, we plead for your cooperation. Whatever the court says, we will obey. But please, let no one take the law into their hands,” he said.
The minister reassured residents that the coastal highway would proceed with sensitivity to local issues, and where needed, flyovers would be constructed to bypass obstacles like cables and refineries.
He also reminded the audience that shoreline property belongs to the Federal Government, stating, “The beachside is not your land; the beachside belongs to the Federal Government.”
The minister ended his address by urging cooperation from residents and assuring transparency, stating, “Please, bear with me and know that we have nothing to benefit or hide.”