HURIWA Condemns Prolonged Injustice in WINHOMES Case, Calls for Presidential Intervention
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly condemned 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. The group warns that this unresolved situation poses a significant threat to Nigeria's credibility as an investment-friendly nation, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene urgently to ensure a fair, transparent, and timely resolution.
Demands for Clarification and Compensation
In a detailed statement, HURIWA called on President Tinubu to clarify the extent of authorisation granted for the demolition of the WINHOMES Estate and to ensure that all affected parties receive full compensation without further delay. The civil rights group, through its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, highlighted findings from over two years of monitoring, engagements, and independent reviews, which indicate that the matter has remained unresolved. This, they argue, undermines public trust in governance and the rule of law in Nigeria.
Despite repeated submissions of documents and multiple engagements with relevant authorities, including invitations extended to affected diaspora investors to return to Nigeria for dialogue, HURIWA noted that there has been no conclusive resolution or compensation paid to the company. The association expressed deep concern that what it describes as a straightforward administrative and legal issue has lingered for more than 24 months without closure, raising serious questions about bureaucratic inefficiency and possible systemic lapses within government agencies.
Constitutional and Administrative Concerns Raised
HURIWA drew attention to a viral video in which the Minister of Works, David Umahi, was said to have publicly admitted ordering the demolition of the WINHOMES Estate, stating that the directive did not emanate from the President. According to the group, this claim raises significant constitutional and administrative concerns regarding due process and the exercise of authority. They emphasized that such an admission, if accurate, requires urgent clarification from the highest levels of government to ascertain whether due process was followed and whether the actions align with established legal frameworks in Nigeria.
The association further highlighted a troubling pattern involving a diaspora investor who allegedly mobilised significant foreign direct investment into Nigeria but suffered demolition of assets, reputational damage, and prolonged delays in securing redress. HURIWA warned that any perception of victimisation could erode investor confidence and damage Nigeria's global standing, noting that the unresolved dispute has broader implications for the country's ability to attract and retain both local and foreign investments.
Broader Implications for Investment and Governance
HURIWA cautioned that investors may be discouraged from committing resources in an environment where due process appears uncertain and compensation for government actions is perceived as discretionary. The group stated that the case has already attracted national and international attention, given the availability of video evidence, official statements, and eyewitness accounts in the public domain. They urged the Federal Ministry of Works to provide a comprehensive account of the circumstances surrounding the demolition, including its legal basis and procedures followed.
In addition, HURIWA called on anti-corruption and oversight agencies to launch an independent investigation into the matter to determine whether there was any abuse of office or violation of constitutional provisions. The association reiterated that Nigeria must not project an image of a country where investments can be destroyed without accountability, stressing that decisive action is required to uphold justice, protect investors, and reinforce the rule of law.
HURIWA affirmed its commitment to continued monitoring and advocacy until justice is achieved, warning that delays in resolving such matters could weaken economic prospects and diminish Nigeria's standing in the global community. The group's stance underscores the critical need for transparency and fairness in handling investment-related disputes to foster a conducive environment for economic growth and development.
