The Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced that 750 houses along the route of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway have been earmarked for demolition. This decision follows the gazetted alignment for the project.

Lagos-Calabar highway: 750 houses for demolition as property owners allege poor compensation

During a meeting with stakeholders in Lagos on Thursday, Umahi explained, “If we follow the new alignment, 490 houses will be demolished. However, according to the gazetted alignment, 750 houses are set for demolition. We are adhering to the gazetted alignment with a realignment of 25 kilometers at the Okun Ajah area to avoid damaging submarine cables.”

Many property owners affected by the demolition are unhappy with the compensation offered by the government, claiming it is insufficient compared to their investments.

Umahi also revealed that President Bola Tinubu is scheduled to inaugurate the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway on Sunday, May 26, 2024. He emphasized the benefits of the project, stating, “The coastal highway will enhance tourism. The new corridor will feature tourism centers, with land provided by relevant government departments. Nigerians will have the opportunity to benefit from this development. Additionally, external funding will help reduce inflation and strengthen the naira. The Federal Government’s commitment remains at 30 percent for local funding.”

The minister stressed that the coastal highway would benefit regions beyond Lagos. “This project spans 700 kilometers and will link Sokoto to Badagry, and connect roads from Enugu, Abakaliki, Ogoja, down to Cameroon. It is part of the trans-African trade route, including the Badagry route, which links us to other West African countries,” he added.

During a question and answer session, 10 property owners received compensation, but many expressed dissatisfaction with the amounts given.

Some property owners voiced their frustrations, calling for a review of the compensation. Cajetan Onu, President of Total Energies Staff Cooperative Society and Total Energies Staff Club, stated, “We have a bulldozer at our fence. We started developing our clubhouse four years ago and just commissioned it this year. We are not opposed to the project but need more time to recover our equipment. We also request a reevaluation of the compensation, as it is inadequate compared to our investment.”

Olanrewaju Ojo, founder of Leisure Games, shared his disappointment with the compensation amount. He said, “I received N1.3 million, which is what I can generate in a week. This amount is ridiculous. What am I supposed to do with this?”

Despite these concerns, the project is moving forward, with the ministry adhering to the gazetted plans and compensating affected property owners as per the government’s evaluation. The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway promises to bring significant infrastructure improvements and economic benefits to the region.

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