Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has dismissed claims made by businessman Olumide Okengwu and real estate company Winhomes about owning a $250 million property affected by the Lagos–Calabar coastal highway project. Umahi stated that the claim was false and created to mislead Nigerians about the government’s development plans. According to him, no verified documents or legal proof have been presented to back the allegation.

The Minister explained that every property along the corridor of the coastal highway is being assessed carefully, and only legitimate owners will be compensated. He stressed that the government is committed to fairness but will not entertain exaggerated or fabricated property valuations. Umahi added that some individuals are making outrageous claims because they believe the project will bring huge commercial value.

Umahi also clarified that the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway is a national priority project designed to open up trade, tourism, and long-term economic development across the South-West, South-South, and South-East regions. He noted that misinformation from individuals or companies could slow down progress or create unnecessary controversies. The Minister urged Nigerians to rely on official updates rather than social media claims.

The government has continued to reassure the public that all affected persons will be treated with transparency. Umahi’s strong response to Okengwu and Winhomes is aimed at protecting the integrity of the project, as the highway remains one of the most ambitious infrastructure developments in Nigeria’s history. The Minister insisted that no amount of false claims would derail the project.