According to Suraju, the information received underscores the need for greater transparency, accountability, and strict compliance with due process in the implementation of the coastal highway project.
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has invoked the provisions of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, 2011, demanding full disclosure from the Federal Ministry of Works on the reclamation of land reportedly belonging to the Oniru family for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project.
In a Freedom of Information request signed by HEDA Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, and addressed to the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, the civil society organisation said the request followed complaints and information received through its whistleblower hotline regarding the reclamation exercise and the compensation process for affected landowners.
According to Suraju, the information received underscores the need for greater transparency, accountability, and strict compliance with due process in the implementation of the coastal highway project.
Invoking Sections 1 and 4 of the FOI Act, HEDA is requesting access to key documents relating to the reclamation and compensation process, including the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), reclamation approval documents, notices of acquisition or revocation, contracts awarded for the reclamation works, compensation assessment and valuation reports, and records identifying beneficiaries of compensation.
