Nigeria’s investment climate is once again under scrutiny as the Winhomes diaspora investor case linked to the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road project drags on without resolution. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for urgent presidential intervention, warning that the prolonged dispute threatens Nigeria’s credibility as a lawful and investment‑friendly nation. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) warns that the unresolved case threatens Nigeria’s credibility as a lawful and investment‑friendly nation.
A Case of Delayed Justice
At a press conference in Abuja, HURIWA revealed that after more than two years of monitoring, the matter remains unresolved. Despite repeated submissions of documents and multiple dialogues with authorities, there has been no compensation or closure for Winhomes.
Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, lamented:
“What should have been a straightforward administrative and legal matter has lingered for over 24 months without closure. This raises questions about bureaucratic inefficiency or deeper systemic issues.”
Ministerial Admission Raises Questions
The controversy deepened after a widely circulated video showed David Umahi, Minister of Works, admitting that he personally ordered the demolition of the Winhomes Estate. He clarified that the directive did not come from the President.
HURIWA argues that this revelation raises serious constitutional concerns. It questions the exercise of authority and adherence to due process in matters affecting private investments.
Diaspora Investor Concerns
The case highlights the plight of a diaspora investor woman who reportedly mobilized significant foreign direct investment into Nigeria, whose estate was demolished. HURIWA warns that such incidents risk reputational damage, erode investor confidence, and discourage future diaspora contributions.
“Any perception of targeted victimization, whether real or inferred, would significantly erode investor confidence and damage Nigeria’s global standing,” Onwubiko stressed.
Broader Implications for Investment
The unresolved dispute has implications beyond the immediate parties. Nigeria’s ability to attract and retain both local and foreign investments depends heavily on assurances of legal protection, transparency, and timely dispute resolution.
Investors will hesitate to commit resources in an environment where due process appears uncertain, executive powers override safeguards, and compensation is discretionary rather than obligatory.
Calls for Presidential Action
HURIWA has urged President Bola Tinubu to:
- Clarify the extent of authorization granted for the demolition.
- Determine whether proper procedures were followed.
- Ensure affected parties receive full and just compensation.
The association also called on the Federal Ministry of Works to provide a transparent account of the demolition, including its legal basis and processes undertaken.
Demand for Independent Investigation
Beyond presidential intervention, HURIWA has asked anti‑corruption and oversight agencies to investigate potential abuse of office, conflict of interest, or constitutional violations. Such an inquiry, it argues, is essential to restore public trust and reassure investors.
Global Attention
The facts surrounding the case, video evidence, official statements, and eyewitness accounts are already in the public domain. Continued inaction risks reinforcing negative perceptions about governance and accountability in Nigeria.
HURIWA has also called on the international community and Nigerians in the diaspora to remain engaged, noting that issues of this nature have far‑reaching implications for global investment flows.
Conclusion
The Winhomes case is more than a dispute between a developer and government authorities. It is a litmus test for Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law, investor protection, and transparency.
HURIWA’s call for presidential intervention underscores the urgency of resolving the matter. Justice delayed not only denies affected parties their remedies but also weakens Nigeria’s economic prospects and global standing.
For Nigeria to remain a viable destination for investment, decisive leadership is needed—leadership that upholds justice, protects investors, and reinforces the supremacy of the rule of law.
