Diaspora Investors Urge FG To Obey Court Order On Alleged Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Diversion

Residents of Okun Ajah have previously protested the proposed rerouting of the highway through their community, claiming it threatens their properties and investments. The diaspora investors, represented by Stella Okengwu, Chief Executive Officer of Winhomes Global Services Limited, issued a statement on Monday condemning the alleged disregard for a court order to halt construction along the disputed route.

“It is unacceptable to trample on the rights of law-abiding citizens who are contributing to Nigeria’s economy,” Okengwu said. “The continued defiance of court orders undermines our justice system and portrays Nigeria as a place where impunity thrives. Despite a pending court order to maintain the status quo, construction has continued on the disputed site, allegedly on the Minister’s instructions. This is a clear contempt for the judiciary.”

The legal dispute is currently before the Federal High Court in Lagos, presided over by Justice Akintayo Aluko, under Suit No: FHC/L/AMC/1803/2024. The case centers on allegations of trespass and includes defendants such as the Attorney General of the Federation, the Minister of Works, the Controller of Works in Lagos, Hitech Construction Company, and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State.

Justice Aluko has addressed a preliminary objection raised by the first to third defendants challenging the court’s jurisdiction. The judge emphasized that this issue must be resolved before any substantive reliefs—such as an injunction—can be considered. He also cautioned all parties against actions that could prejudice the judicial process or undermine the case’s outcome, stressing the need to preserve the subject matter of the dispute.

Okengwu noted that, despite these judicial directives, construction on the diverted highway route has continued, leaving Winhomes investors in financial distress and uncertainty. She highlighted that the project represents an estimated $250 million in diaspora investment and vowed to pursue justice relentlessly.

She called on the Federal Government and all relevant authorities to ensure that no individual is allowed to act above the law. Okengwu urged for accountability and respect for the judicial process to protect investors and uphold the rule of law in Nigeria.