Paragraph 1: Minister Alleges Illegal Occupation by Landmark Group
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has accused Landmark Group of illegally occupying a section of the Lagos waterfront intended for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. During an inspection of the highway’s Section 1, Umahi asserted that the disputed area, claimed by Landmark as a waterfront, was actually part of the Eko Atlantic project designed to protect Victoria Island and Lekki. He emphasized that the Federal Government legally owns the waterfront, citing a Supreme Court judgment and constitutional provisions. Umahi criticized Landmark for what he termed "illegally coveting" the waterfront over the years, emphasizing that it was the Federal Government’s responsibility.
Paragraph 2: Federal Ownership and Shoreline Rights Re-Affirmed
Minister Umahi reiterated the Federal Government’s ownership of the shoreline, stating that 250 meters from the shoreline legally belongs to the Federal Government. He lamented the tendency in Nigeria for illegal occupation of government property to go unchallenged, highlighting the need for the government to assert its rights to facilitate the construction of the coastal road. Umahi explained that the chosen route for the coastal highway was within the government’s legally owned territory, even within the area allocated to Eko Atlantic. He stressed the importance of transparency and truth in the matter, believing it crucial for the nation’s progress.
Paragraph 3: Addressing Concerns about Beach Life
Responding to public concerns regarding the potential disappearance of beach life due to the construction, Umahi questioned Landmark Group’s standing to raise such concerns. He argued that Landmark had no claim to the waterfront and therefore should not be concerned about its alteration. The minister explained that the area previously used for beach activities was part of the overall plan to protect Lekki and Victoria Island from ocean flooding, a project which he claimed had been successful.
Paragraph 4: Challenging Landmark’s Claim and Allegations of Illegal Leasing
Umahi challenged Landmark Group to produce any documentation proving the Federal Government had granted them ownership of the waterfront. He accused Landmark of illegally leasing out sections of the oceanfront, further solidifying his claim of land grabbing. The minister maintained that the waterfront belonged unequivocally to the Federal Government, and Landmark’s actions were unlawful. He depicted Landmark’s activities as an attempt to usurp government property for private gain.
Paragraph 5: Clarification on Demolition and Compensation
Addressing the demolition of structures within the disputed area, Umahi clarified that only temporary structures, or "shanties," were demolished, not permanent Landmark buildings. He stated that the owners of these demolished structures were compensated as directed by the President. He emphasized that none of the demolished structures belonged to Landmark Group, reiterating his accusation of land grabbing against the company. Umahi attempted to differentiate between temporary and permanent structures, portraying the demolition as a necessary step and not an attack on Landmark’s property.
Paragraph 6: Summary of the Dispute and Minister’s Stance
The core of the dispute revolves around the ownership and usage of the Lagos waterfront area needed for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Minister Umahi insists that the Federal Government legally owns the land and accuses Landmark Group of illegal occupation, leasing, and attempting to impede the construction of a vital national infrastructure project. He defends the demolition of temporary structures on the site, stating that they did not belong to Landmark and that appropriate compensation was paid. Umahi’s public statements aim to clarify the government’s position, emphasizing legality, transparency, and the importance of the coastal highway project. He frames Landmark’s actions as a challenge to the government’s authority and an obstruction to national development.
