HURIWA demands urgent Presidential intervention in WINHOMES case

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised grave concerns over what it describes as a troubling and 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 poses a direct threat to Nigeria’s credibility as a lawful and […]

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised grave concerns over what it describes as a troubling and 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 poses a direct threat to Nigeria’s credibility as a lawful and investment-friendly nation.

Addressing a press conference on Monday, in Abuja, HURIWA stated that after over two years of consistent monitoring, engagements, and independent reviews, it has become evident that the matter has been left unresolved for far too long, thereby undermining public trust in governance and the rule of law.

HURIWA noted that available records and interactions with concerned parties reveal that despite repeated submissions of documents and multiple engagements with relevant authorities, including invitations extended to affected diaspora investors to return to Nigeria for dialogue, there has been no conclusive resolution or payment of compensation to WINHOMES Global Services Limited.

The association expressed deep concern that what should have been a straightforward administrative and legal matter has lingered for over 24 months without closure, raising questions about whether the delay is a result of bureaucratic inefficiency or indicative of deeper systemic issues that must be urgently addressed.

HURIWA further drew attention to a widely circulated video in which the Honourable Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, reportedly stated publicly that he personally ordered the demolition of the WINHOMES Estate, clarifying that the directive did not emanate from the President.

According to HURIWA, this revelation introduces serious constitutional and administrative questions regarding the exercise of authority and adherence to due process in matters affecting private investments.

The association stressed that such a public admission, if accurately represented, necessitates immediate clarification from the highest levels of government to determine whether due process was followed, and whether the actions taken were consistent with established legal and institutional frameworks.

HURIWA emphasized that the case also highlights a broader and deeply concerning pattern in which a Nigerian diaspora investor (reported to be a woman who mobilized significant foreign direct investment into the country) has allegedly faced demolition of her investment, reputational damage, and prolonged delays in obtaining redress.

The association warned that any perception of targeted victimization, whether real or inferred, would significantly erode investor confidence and damage Nigeria’s global standing.

The civil rights body stated that the implications of the unresolved dispute extend far beyond the immediate parties involved, noting that Nigeria’s ability to attract and retain both local and foreign investments depends heavily on the assurance of legal protection, transparency, and timely dispute resolution.

HURIWA cautioned that investors will be reluctant to commit resources to an environment where due process appears uncertain, where executive powers may override established legal safeguards, and where compensation for government actions is perceived as discretionary rather than obligatory.

The association underscored that the facts surrounding the case are already in the public domain, with video evidence, official statements, and eyewitness accounts widely accessible, thereby attracting both national and international attention. It warned that continued inaction risks reinforcing negative perceptions about governance and accountability in Nigeria.

In light of these developments, HURIWA called on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to immediately intervene in the matter to ensure a fair, transparent, and timely resolution.

The association urged the President to clarify the extent of authorization granted for the demolition, determine whether proper procedures were followed, and ensure that all affected parties receive full and just compensation without further delay.

HURIWA also called on the Federal Ministry of Works to provide a comprehensive and transparent account of the circumstances surrounding the demolition, including the legal basis for the action and the processes undertaken prior to its execution.