demolition of structures on the government’s right of way for the construction
of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway.
In an interaction with journalists on Saturday, the minister
said no structure belonging to the Landmark beach resort was demolished, adding
that only shanties erected on the government’s right of way were affected.
“Landmark has unfortunately made so much noise about this. I
have revisited the place, and I can say none of his infrastructure is affected.
Just the shanties are affected and they are bulldozed already. We are passing
our coastal bridge within the right of way of the federal government,” he said.
“I have directed that the beach should be shut down for
tomorrow and there is no beach. The place is owned by people who are sand filling
it, and at the end of the day, there is no more beach.
“Those who are playing politics with it can go ahead. My job
is simple: to pass the coastal road. It’s in a right-of-way within the coastal
corridor which is the legitimate right-of-way of the federal government.”
The minister said those affected by the demolition will be
adequately compensated, adding that documentation will start on May 2-3.
Bolaji Ariyo, chief executive officer of Mami Chula Beach,
said he shared the project’s vision “even if it causes inconvenience for a
small number of people”.
“I understand when a government is promising to make life
easy for the entire Nigerians. Some of us are affected, no doubt about it, but
those affected are not up to 0.1% of the millions that will enjoy the coastal
roads,” Ariyo said.
“That’s why people like me have taken it to heart to also
support Mr President and the honourable minister to ensure that this road comes
to life.”
Employees of Landmark recently staged a protest against the
sand filling of the beach for the road construction.
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