The Federal Government has redirected the ongoing demolition activities to facilitate the development of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway. This strategic decision has effectively prevented the destruction of approximately 2000 residences in the Okun-Ajah Community situated in the Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State.
In a letter dated July 5th, written by the Baale of Okun-Ajah, Chief Sikiru Olukosi, and Secretary Kamorudeen Balogun, the community expressed their profound gratitude for the prompt response of the Federal Government to their concerns.
The community conveyed their heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and Minister of Works, David Umahi, for their recent choice to adjust the path of the coastal road project.
The correspondence stated, “The Federal Government’s timely attention to and action on the issues raised by our community are greatly valued and exemplify the government’s dedication to preserving our cultural legacy.”
“Your decision has brought immense relief and joy to the residents of Okun-Ajah Community, as our ancestral home holds deep cultural and historical importance for us. It serves as a sanctuary where our traditions and customs are revered, signifying our shared identity and unity.”
“By opting to redirect the road towards the marsh area of the community, you have not only protected a vital aspect of our heritage by preventing the displacement of thousands of our people, but have also reinforced the trust and confidence we have in the Federal Government of Nigeria, which has shown compassion for its citizens.”
In May 2024, the community urged the Federal and Lagos State governments to exclude the traditional ruler’s palace and 2,000 other residences from a revised project route, asserting that these properties had been mistakenly marked for demolition.
On May 24, the Federal Government assured the Okun-Ajah community that their concerns had been noted and their properties would remain untouched. Umahi, during a meeting with representatives from communities along the road alignment between Eko Atlantic (Chainage Zero) and Eleko inside (Chainage 47.4km), confirmed that the construction in this area would follow the original route specified by the federal government.
The 700-kilometer road project is expected to take eight years to complete and have a budget of ₦15tn. The initial phase of construction has commenced at Eko Atlantic City and will end at Lekki Deep Seaport, with ₦1.06tn already allocated for this section. This 10-lane highway, valued at ₦4bn per kilometer, is poised to be the first of its kind in Africa, as articulated by Minister of Works, David Umahi.
