The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed serious concern over what it describes as a prolonged case of alleged injustice involving Winhomes Global Services Limited and diaspora investors affected by the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road project, warning that the situation threatens Nigeria’s reputation as a law-abiding and investment-friendly country.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, said that after more than two years of monitoring, engagement, and independent review, the matter remains unresolved, eroding public confidence in governance and the rule of law.
HURIWA stated that records and interactions with stakeholders show that despite repeated document submissions and engagements with relevant authorities, including invitations extended to diaspora investors to return to Nigeria for discussions, there has been no final resolution or compensation paid to Winhomes Global Services Limited.
The group lamented that “what should have been a routine administrative and legal issue has lingered for over 24 months without closure, raising concerns about whether the delay stems from bureaucratic inefficiency or deeper systemic problems that require urgent attention”.
It also referenced a widely circulated video in which the Minister of Works, David Umahi, reportedly stated that he personally ordered the demolition of the Winhomes Estate, noting that the directive did not originate from the President. HURIWA said this raises significant constitutional and administrative questions about the exercise of authority and adherence to due process.
According to the association, such a statement, if accurately represented, requires immediate clarification from the highest levels of government to establish whether due process was followed and whether the actions align with existing legal and institutional frameworks.
HURIWA further noted that the case reflects a broader concern involving a Nigerian diaspora investor, reportedly a woman who attracted substantial foreign direct investment, who allegedly suffered demolition of her investment, reputational damage, and prolonged delays in obtaining redress. It warned that any perception of targeted victimization could undermine investor confidence and harm Nigeria’s global image.
The group emphasized that the implications of the unresolved dispute extend beyond the immediate parties, stressing that Nigeria’s ability to attract and retain both local and foreign investments depends on guarantees of legal protection, transparency, and timely dispute resolution.
It cautioned that investors may hesitate to commit resources in an environment where due process appears uncertain, executive authority may override legal safeguards, and compensation for government actions is seen as discretionary rather than mandatory.
HURIWA also observed that “the case has gained wide public attention, with video evidence, official statements, and eyewitness accounts already in circulation locally and internationally, warning that continued inaction could reinforce negative perceptions about governance and accountability”.
Consequently, the association called on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene to ensure a fair, transparent, and timely resolution. It urged the President to clarify the level of authorization for the demolition, determine whether due process was followed, and ensure prompt and adequate compensation for all affected parties.
The group further urged the Federal Ministry of Works to provide a full and transparent account of the circumstances surrounding the demolition, including its legal basis and the procedures followed before its execution.
In addition, HURIWA called on relevant anti-corruption and oversight agencies to conduct an independent investigation to determine whether there was any abuse of office, conflict of interest, or violation of constitutional provisions.
The association maintained that “Nigeria must avoid projecting an image of a country where investments can be destroyed without accountability and where silence follows actions with significant economic consequences” and stressed the need for “decisive leadership that upholds justice, protects investors, and reinforces the rule of law”.
HURIWA also encouraged the international community and Nigerians in the diaspora to remain attentive, noting that such issues have wider implications for global investment flows and Nigeria’s attractiveness as a business destination.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the situation and sustaining advocacy efforts until justice is served and institutional accountability is achieved.
It concluded that delays in resolving matters of this nature not only deny affected parties justice but also weaken public trust, hinder economic growth, and diminish Nigeria’s standing in the global community.
