The Okun Ajah Community Development Association, representing the residents of Okun Ajah in Eti Osa Local Government Area, Lagos State, has voiced serious concerns regarding an alleged diversion of the ongoing Lagos-Calabar Expressway project into their community. In a statement released to PUNCH Metro, the association claims that the road’s course has been altered from its originally gazetted alignment, purportedly to benefit a select group of individuals.
The community asserts that the Lagos State and Federal Government had plans for the construction of a coastal road nearly three decades ago, with the official alignment approved in 2006 during the tenure of former Governor Bola Tinubu. They emphasize that the residents have always respected the established rights of way and have not encroached upon the approved alignment.
In an open letter, the association’s chairman, Isah Noibi, and secretary, Yusuf Odunuga, highlighted the potential consequences of the diversion, stating, “The people and residents of Okun Ajah are being threatened with illegal demolition of their properties, lifelong investments, houses, and estates, simply for adhering to the law.” They stressed the historical significance of Okun Ajah, a settlement with over 500 years of history, characterized by a diverse population of both indigenes and residents.
The letter further details that the community has been aware of the coastal road project for nearly thirty years, having witnessed the approval of the Coastal Road Alignment in 2006. They express deep concern over the potential impact on significant investments from Nigerians in the Diaspora, as well as local cooperative societies, which could be jeopardized by the diversion.
The community claims that certain individuals, allegedly benefiting from the diversion, had purchased land along the coastal road, leading to suspicions that they influenced the change in alignment to areas that do not infringe upon the established right of way. They also clarify that no telecommunications infrastructure exists within the community that would necessitate such a diversion.
“For clarification purposes,” the statement continues, “the Okun Ajah Alignment is at chainage 16+500 – 17+500, while the MTN cable is at chainage 24+500, located approximately seven kilometers away from Okun Ajah at ShopRite Road.” The community has appealed to the President to direct the Minister of Works to adhere to the 2006 approved alignment and halt any further deviations.
In response to inquiries regarding the allegations, federal authorities have remained tight-lipped. Olukorede Keisha, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos State, refrained from commenting, suggesting that questions be directed to the Honourable Minister of Works.
As the situation develops, the Okun Ajah community continues to advocate for justice and transparency regarding the ongoing construction of the Lagos-Calabar Expressway, seeking to protect their rights and investments.
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