Civil society group demands swift compensation amid growing unrest over wrecked investments
A prominent coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) has demanded urgent action from the federal government to compensate victims affected by demolitions during the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. They warned that continued delays threaten Nigeria’s appeal to investors in the diaspora.
Protest Erupts Over Unpaid Compensation
Protesters, including affected property owners and diaspora investors, gathered at the Ministry of Works office in Lagos. Demonstrators called for fair compensation, citing properties destroyed along the Okun-Ajah corridor. Leaders accused the government of ignoring constitutional land rights.
The group also demanded the release of Ola Obanla, allegedly detained by soldiers during a site visit. So far, no official charge or location has been disclosed.
Injured Investors Urge Presidential Intervention
Representatives of Nigerians living abroad, who invested heavily in the impacted communities, appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu. They stressed that inadequate compensation would discourage future diaspora investments worth millions of dollars.
They called for restoration of property or full market-value payment. Many affected investments total over $250 million combined.
Legal and Civil Groups Blast Government Practices
Advocacy groups criticized what they described as a “manufactured compensation process” based on undervalued federal rates rather than independent assessments. A land-rights coalition cited the Land Use Act and Supreme Court laws, arguing victims are owed far more than currently offered.
In contrast, government officials stated they’ve paid out up to ₦18 billion in compensation for section one of the corridor. However, critics contend many affected owners are still uncompensated.
Growing Concern Over Investment Risk
CSOs warn that unchecked demolition practices undermine trust in Nigeria’s investment climate. Diaspora investors say losing property without prompt redress contradicts promises made during national investment promotion drives.
They warned: continued impunity could erode Nigeria’s credibility among foreign and local investors alike.
What Comes Next?
The protesters called on the Minister of Works to reverse the road alignment where appropriate, resume full compensation payments, and set up an independent presidential oversight committee. They also urged compliance with Section 44 of the Constitution regarding property acquisition.
The federal government and Ministry of Works are expected to respond promptly to avoid wider backlash and restore stakeholder trust.
