HURIWA Calls for Probe into Demolition of $250m Estate, FG Defends Action

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has demanded an independent investigation into the demolition of a $250 million estate linked to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project.

The group’s call comes amid a firm response from the Federal Government, which insists the demolition followed due process and was guided by legal and technical considerations.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, described the incident as a troubling case that could undermine investor confidence, particularly among Nigerians in the diaspora.

According to him, the demolished estate, owned by WINHOMES Global Services Limited and largely funded by diaspora investors, was brought down without compensation despite ongoing engagements with authorities over the past two years.

He warned that such actions could discourage both local and foreign investments, especially at a time when the government is encouraging Nigerians abroad to invest in the country.

“Incidents like this send the wrong signal. A developer mobilised diaspora funds into a major project, only for it to be demolished without compensation,” Onwubiko said.

HURIWA noted that after over 24 months of monitoring the case and engaging stakeholders, there has been no resolution or payment to affected investors. The group also raised concerns over a viral video in which the Minister of Works, David Umahi, reportedly claimed responsibility for ordering the demolition without direct presidential approval.

The association said such claims, if accurate, raise serious constitutional and administrative questions about authority and due process. It called on the Federal Ministry of Works to provide full details of the demolition, including its legal basis and procedures followed.

HURIWA further urged anti-corruption agencies to launch a thorough investigation to determine whether there was any abuse of office or violation of the law. It also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene, clarify the level of approval granted, and ensure prompt compensation for affected investors.

The group warned that failure to address the issue could damage Nigeria’s global reputation and weaken confidence in its governance system.

In response, the Federal Government dismissed allegations of unlawful action, maintaining that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project was executed in line with constitutional provisions and established procedures.

Francis Nwaze, Senior Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Works, stated that the demolition was not a personal decision by Minister Umahi but the result of a coordinated process involving multiple Lagos State agencies and technical experts.

He explained that the road alignment was carefully designed to minimise large-scale demolition and protect critical infrastructure. Adjustments were made at various points to avoid densely populated areas and high-value properties.

According to him, only a portion of the WinHomes estate—about four hectares out of over twelve—fell within the project’s right-of-way. He clarified that no entire estate was demolished, but only frontage structures and undeveloped sections were affected.

Nwaze added that compensation was offered in line with federal guidelines but was reportedly rejected by the developer’s representatives.

He also noted that more than 500 structures along the project corridor have been impacted, with compensation processes applied consistently.

Reaffirming the government’s position, Nwaze stressed that the project reflects a coordinated engineering effort rather than arbitrary action, urging the public to rely on verified facts rather than speculation.