The federal government’s decision to reroute the multibillion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, following the demolition of multibillion-dollar properties, has sparked outrage.
During the 3rd stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, announced that the proposed diversion for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project would be abandoned. This decision was attributed to the presence of submarine cables along the coastline.
At the meeting, lawyers, traditional leaders, property owners, and ICT professionals voiced their concerns regarding both the new and old alignments.
Previously, the Okun-Ajah community raised alarm and cautioned both the federal and Lagos State Governments about the purported unauthorized alteration to the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway route. This adjustment threatened the demolition of six villages and the displacement of three traditional rulers within the community unless the plan was abandoned. The recent demolitions also impacted the beachfront of several private businesses, notably LandMark Beach, exacerbating the economic losses experienced by the affected enterprises.
The Landmark Resort and Beach, a vast hospitality and leisure destination valued at $200 million according to its owner, bore the brunt of the demolitions, with federal authorities bulldozing properties encroaching on the right of way. Other affected beaches included Mami Chula Beach, Breeze Beach Club, Moist Beach, and G12 Oniru Beach.
Umahi while addressing stakeholders said, “If we go by the new alignment, 490 houses would be demolished; also, following the gazette alignment, 750 houses would be demolished.
“There will be no change of alignment; we are adhering to the gazetted alignment. However, there will be a realignment of approximately 25 kilometers at the Okun Ajah area to prevent damage to submarine cables,” Umahi clarified. He further revealed that President Bola Tinubu had been invited to inaugurate the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
The announcement by the FG triggered significant anger and outrage, particularly on social media platforms, regarding the decision to reroute the controversial project.
The debate over the Lagos-Calabar highway realignment underscores the complex trade-offs involved in infrastructure development projects, where the pursuit of progress often intersects with social, environmental, and ethical considerations.
As stakeholders continue to engage in dialogue and negotiations, finding a balance between development objectives and community interests remains a critical challenge for policymakers and decision-makers. The outcome of these discussions will not only shape the future of the highway project but also reflect broader priorities related to sustainable development and inclusive growth in Nigeria.
