Senator David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has refuted Landmark Africa’s claim to a 250-meter shoreline segment designated as part of the Right-of-Way for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
His statement came during the demolition of properties at the Landmark Resort beachfront, where he accused property owners of politicizing the issue and appealing to public sentiment.
Umahi emphasized that the Federal Government had made concerted efforts to spare the company’s properties, ensuring that the core infrastructure remained intact.
He dismissed any entitlement for compensation, asserting, “We spared all his infrastructure; we don’t pay for shanties.” He clarified that the shanties fell within the designated Right-of-Way, which is 250 meters from the shoreline.
The minister’s remarks underscored a contentious backdrop surrounding the construction of the over 700-kilometer Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
The project has sparked debates concerning its cost, feasibility, and the impact on properties and businesses along its route. Critics, including Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have questioned the project’s viability and funding model.
Landmark CEO Paul Onwuanibe had previously appealed to the Federal Government to reconsider the highway’s route, warning of significant job losses and business closures resulting from the demolition of properties.
He estimated potential job losses at over 12,000, including both direct and indirect employment opportunities linked to the resort and associated businesses.
