We Want Truth, Justice & Accountability  – Nigerian Diaspora Investors Reply David Umahi 

MICHAEL AKINOLA 

Nigerians in the Diaspora, whose  properties were destroyed in the diversion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in the Okun Ajah area of Lagos State, have carpeted the Minister of Works, David Umahi, over the 7-day ultimatum to Winhomes GlobalServices.

P.M.EXPRESS reports that the Minister had during an inspection of the road on Tuesday issued a 7-day ultimatum to the cordinator of the scheme, Engr. Stella Okengwu, to tender all necessary documents on the $250 million. (two hundred and fifty million dollars) investment allegedly demolished.

The investors in a statement on Wednesday signed by Engr. Okengwu,  demanded “truth, justice and accountability” from the Minister.

The investors said, “Diaspora investors in WINHOMES Estate categorically reject the recent public statements made by the Honourable Minister of Works concerning the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project. These statements are misleading, inaccurate, and a grave disservice to Nigerians and the international community. It is imperative that the truth be told”.

“Repeatedly invoking the President’s name in this dispute is both inappropriate and damaging.”

The investors also continued, “Presenting a legal conflict as though it bears presidential endorsement drags the Presidency into a matter that must be resolved strictly by the courts”.

“This erodes investor confidence, paints Nigeria as a country where executive interference trumps judicial independence, and sends the wrong signal to the international community.”

“The Minister has publicly claimed that only four hectares of land belonging to WINHOMES were affected by demolition. This is patently false. WINHOMES represents over $250 million in diaspora investment, covering a far larger area than acknowledged.”

“Families, professionals, and businesses who invested in good faith under Nigeria’s land allocation system have lost properties and assets valued at much more than what the Ministry admits.”

“The Minister also asserted that the Federal Government has already obtained a court judgment in its favour. This is untrue. The matter—Suit No. FHC/L/CS/1063/25—remains pending before Justice Akintayo Aluko at the Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos. No trial has commenced, no judgment has been delivered, and any suggestion otherwise is a reckless distortion.” the investors pointed out.

“Under Nigerian law, ongoing cases must be allowed to run their course. To revoke titles or seize property while proceedings are active is unconstitutional and undermines the very foundation of justice.”

“The denial that diaspora representatives were invited to address this issue is false. Video evidence exists showing the Minister personally extending such an invitation to diaspora stakeholders during a meeting with civil society groups, while promising to escalate the matter to the President. If necessary, this evidence will be released publicly.”

According to the investors, “Grave concerns have also emerged regarding financial transactions linked to the Ministry, including reports of a ₦200 million cash payment.”

They demanded, “In the interest of transparency and accountability, we call on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately investigate these allegations”.

“Nigerians, both at home and abroad, must be assured that public institutions are being run with integrity and not compromised by financial impropriety.”

The investors stressed, “Contrary to the Ministry’s denials, MTN Africa has publicly advised against diverting the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway through the WINHOMES Estate”.

“Their warning, broadcast on national television, exposes the blatant disregard for expert input and due process in this project’s execution.”

They stated, “Diaspora investors in WINHOMES will convene a World Press Conference to present undeniable evidence—video records, financial documents, and expert testimony—to Nigerians and the international community”.

“Our goal is not only to defend our investments but also to expose the wider risks of arbitrary governance to any investor considering Nigeria as a viable destination.”