Residents of Okun Ajah in Lagos State are in an uproar over a controversial diversion of the Lagos-Calabar Expressway that threatens their homes and investments.
The affected community includes over 800 workers from companies like Etisalat, Addax Petroleum, and Seplat Energy. These individuals said they invested nearly N10 billion to secure properties for their retirement.
They believed their future was safe after following all legal requirements for property ownership. However, the recent road diversion has thrown their plans into chaos.
The Federal Ministry of Works has been accused of corruption, nepotism, and favoritism. Many residents are questioning the motives behind the diversion, which they say violates established agreements and standards.
“The diversion is a clear perversion of justice,” said Babangida Muhammed, President of the Etisalat Workers Cooperative Society.
Residents argue that the road was supposed to follow a 2006 gazetted alignment. Instead, the road is now being redirected into their properties, only to return to the original alignment after passing through Okun Ajah.
Barrister Yemi Adeshina (SAN), who represents the affected residents, expressed disbelief at the situation. “This is a disregard for the rule of law,” he stated.
Despite having all necessary documentation, including Right of Way Clearances and Certificates of Occupancy, the residents feel betrayed.
Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, and the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mrs. Olukorede Keisha, have been accused of targeting law-abiding citizens while ignoring illegal constructions nearby.
“We complied with all the laws, but we are the ones being punished,” said Solomon Erekosima, president of the Seplat Energy Workers Cooperative Society.
The residents have taken their grievances to the highest level, writing an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
They accuse the current Baale of Okun Ajah, Sikiru Olukosi, of facilitating the sale of land designated for road construction to certain influential groups.
“The Baale knowingly sold land for a pittance while ignoring our legal rights,” they claimed.
In the letter, the community highlighted a disturbing pattern of corruption. “Hundreds of millions of Naira are exchanging hands to divert the road,” they wrote.
They argue that this situation undermines the rule of law and jeopardizes future investments in Nigeria. “How can foreign investors trust a system that rewards lawbreakers?” they asked.
The community also challenged claims made by the Minister regarding telecommunications cables obstructing the road. “No such cables exist in Okun Ajah,” they stated.
Their appeal is clear: return to the original alignment and uphold the law.
