A legal controversy has emerged over a parcel of land in Okun Ajah, Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State, as Abuja-based law firm Ndarani SAN & Co. has raised alarm over what it describes as an illegal encroachment by the Federal Ministry of Works.
In a formal statement, the firm alleged that the land—lawfully allocated by the Lagos State Government—was acquired by a consortium of private investors who have committed over $250 million to its development. The firm insists the project is backed by valid documentation and relevant government approvals.
The dispute, according to the firm, stems from an alleged deviation in the alignment of the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. The firm claims the federal project veered off its gazetted route by nearly seven kilometers, affecting private property not constitutionally designated for federal acquisition.
An incident on May 4 reportedly escalated tensions, when individuals dressed in military fatigues allegedly invaded the construction site. A worker, Olamide Obanla, was said to have been assaulted and taken away during the raid and remains unaccounted for.
“This act of forceful entry, without due legal process or compensation, undermines investor confidence and violates property rights,” the law firm said, calling for urgent federal intervention and legal redress.
The firm further warned that should government authorities fail to act, it would explore both local and international legal channels to defend the interests of its clients.
Responding to the allegations, Uchenna Orji, media aide to the Minister of Works, dismissed the claims as unfounded and politically motivated. He defended the project’s legitimacy, stating that all alignments were reviewed to minimize damage to existing infrastructure and private property.
Orji stressed that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is part of the administration’s broader push to enhance national road infrastructure and economic connectivity. He also encouraged aggrieved parties to pursue their grievances through legal channels rather than media campaigns.
“The road project was not designed to be built in the air or water. Naturally, some properties will be affected,” Orji noted. “The Honourable Minister is carrying out his mandate in accordance with government policy.”
He added that similar grievances have been addressed through court processes and reiterated the ministry’s commitment to lawful and transparent execution of the project.
The matter remains unresolved, with stakeholders awaiting potential legal proceedings or further administrative action.
