Tempers flared Sunday as Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, clashed with a vocal supporter of President Bola Tinubu during a public engagement on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event brought together federal lawmakers, stakeholders, and homeowners affected by the ambitious infrastructure project.
The tension reached a peak when a woman identifying herself as a campaigner for President Tinubu spoke out, alleging that her properties were unjustly demolished for the road project despite her holding government-issued certificates and approvals.
According to the woman, who described herself as “a matron in the Tinubu campaign organization with over 5,000 members,” the coastal road’s route was rerouted to pass through her estate, causing her significant financial loss. She denied allegations by the minister that she had mobilized protests against the project, asserting that her objections were based on her right to protect her property.
Umahi did not take kindly to her protest. “You have been doing a lot to stop the project,” he said, accusing her of causing disturbances. “Listen to me, if I get further disturbances from you, there will be consequences for it. We are following the law. You are free to go to court if we are infringing on your rights.”
As her objections continued even after the microphone was taken from her, Umahi issued the directive, “Security, move her out.”
The minister also shared his personal experiences of losing property to national infrastructure projects.
“In Port Harcourt, my property was also involved in the construction of East-West Road, totally demolished. In Aba, my property was also involved,” he said, asking the stakeholders to cooperate while legal proceedings unfold.
“If you are offended by me or the ministry, please accept our apology,” Umahi added, stressing that “the coast highway must be on land,” and explaining that flyovers will be built to bypass critical infrastructure like cables and refineries.
Umahi assured that final designs would be shared with the public, reiterating that the shoreline belongs to the Federal Government.
“The beachside is not your land; the beachside belongs to the Federal Government,” he stated.
The N15 trillion Lagos-Calabar Superhighway, a critical infrastructure project linking Lagos to Cross River and passing through multiple states, has drawn criticism, with many questioning its timing amidst economic challenges.
Despite objections, Umahi defended the project, insisting it was in the best interest of Nigerians.