Lagos–Calabar highway: Diaspora investors fault Umahi’s claims, insist case not closed

Diaspora investors in Winhomes Estate in Lekki have faulted the comments made by the Minister of Works, David Umahi, about the demolition of properties in the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway corridor, calling for greater clarity and legal accountability.

The Minister had told reporters last week during an inspection of the project in Lagos stated that “only about four hectares of Winhomes Estate land were affected by the Lagos-Calabar highway alignment.”

He added, “The matter has gone beyond the Ministry of Works. The Lagos State government has revoked the land, and the court has ruled in our favour. I never called WinHomes for any negotiation. The case is closed.”

On the question of the claimed $250 million diaspora investment, Umahi questioned the evidence backing that figure, saying,
“If truly $250 million was invested, where is the proof? Who paid the money and through which bank? Nigerians deserve to know.“

However, diaspora investors, in a statement on Wednesday by the Chief Executive Officer of WINHOMES Global Services Ltd., Engr. Stella Okengwu, countered that their investment exceeds $250 million and stressed that the legal process must be respected.

The statement noted that the matter is filed as Suit No. FHC/L/CS/1063/25 before Justice Akintayo Aluko of the Federal High Court, Lagos, and maintained that no trial has commenced and no judgment has yet been delivered.

The group urged that the judicial system be allowed to adjudicate the dispute independently, and they announced plans to hold a world press conference to present video records, documents, and expert testimony to Nigerians and the global audience.

Speaking about their position, Okengwu said, “Our goal is not only to defend our investments but also to contribute to a transparent and lawful process that protects both citizens and investors.

“The destruction of WINHOMES Estate is not a matter of opinion, but of legality, accountability, and due process. We will pursue justice relentlessly through lawful means and will not relent until the truth prevails.”