.,.seeks presidential intervention

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned what it described as a prolonged case of alleged injustice involving WINHOMES Global Services Limited and diaspora investors affected by the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road project, warning that the situation threatens Nigeria’s credibility as an investment-friendly nation.

It called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene to ensure a fair, transparent and timely resolution. The group urged the President to clarify the extent of authorisation granted for the demolition and ensure that all affected parties receive full compensation without further delay.

In a statement, the civil rights group said findings from over two years of monitoring, engagements and independent reviews indicate that the matter has remained unresolved, undermining public trust in governance and the rule of law.

In the statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, the group noted that despite repeated submissions of documents and multiple engagements with relevant authorities, including invitations extended to affected diaspora investors to return to Nigeria for dialogue, there has been no conclusive resolution or compensation paid to the company.

The association expressed concern that what it described as a straightforward administrative and legal issue has lingered for more than 24 months without closure, raising questions about bureaucratic inefficiency and possible systemic lapses.

It also drew attention to a viral video in which the Minister of Works, David Umahi, was said to have publicly admitted ordering the demolition of the WINHOMES Estate, stating that the directive did not emanate from the President.

According to HURIWA, the claim raises constitutional and administrative concerns regarding due process and the exercise of authority.

The group said such an admission, if accurate, requires urgent clarification from the highest levels of government to ascertain whether due process was followed and whether the actions align with established legal frameworks.

HURIWA further highlighted what it described as a troubling pattern involving a diaspora investor who allegedly mobilised significant foreign direct investment into Nigeria but suffered demolition of assets, reputational damage and prolonged delays in securing redress.

It warned that any perception of victimisation could erode investor confidence and damage Nigeria’s global standing, noting that the unresolved dispute has broader implications for the country’s ability to attract and retain both local and foreign investments.

The association cautioned that investors may be discouraged from committing resources in an environment where due process appears uncertain and compensation for government actions is perceived as discretionary.

HURIWA said the case has already attracted national and international attention, given the availability of video evidence, official statements and eyewitness accounts in the public domain.

The association therefore urged the Federal Ministry of Works to provide a comprehensive account of the circumstances surrounding the demolition, including its legal basis and procedures followed.

In addition, it called on anti-corruption and oversight agencies to launch an independent investigation into the matter to determine whether there was any abuse of office or violation of constitutional provisions.

HURIWA reiterated that Nigeria must not project an image of a country where investments can be destroyed without accountability, stressing that decisive action is required to uphold justice, protect investors and reinforce the rule of law.

The group affirmed its commitment to continued monitoring and advocacy until justice is achieved, warning that delays in resolving such matters could weaken economic prospects and diminish Nigeria’s standing in the global community.