Youth Advocacy Group Seeks Presidential Intervention in Investment Dispute
The Committee of Youth on Mobilization and Sensitization (CYMS) has issued an urgent call for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in a protracted dispute involving Winhomes Global Services Limited and diaspora investors affected by the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project. In a communiqué released on Thursday, April 16, 2026, the group highlighted that this unresolved issue, persisting for over two years, poses a significant threat to Nigeria's reputation as a destination favorable to investment.
Concerns Over Bureaucratic Inefficiency and Governance Lapses
The communiqué, signed by Chief Obinna Nwaka, Director General of CYMS, and Hon. Tayo Tola Agbaje, Chairman of the Renewed Hope Concern Citizens (RHCC), expressed deep concern that despite multiple engagements with relevant authorities, no resolution or compensation has been provided to the affected investors. This situation raises serious questions about bureaucratic inefficiency and potential systemic failures within Nigeria's governance structures.
Constitutional Questions Raised Over Minister's Comments
CYMS also addressed comments attributed to the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, who reportedly stated that he personally ordered the demolition of the Winhomes Estate, noting that the directive did not originate from the President. The group emphasized that if accurate, such a claim raises constitutional concerns regarding due process and the proper exercise of authority in matters involving private and foreign investments. "It necessitates immediate clarification from the highest levels of government to ensure that due process has been followed and that all actions align with established legal standards," the communiqué stated.
Broader Implications for Investor Confidence
The group warned that the implications of this dispute extend far beyond the immediate parties involved. They stressed that investor confidence in Nigeria depends on key factors such as:
- Transparency in governmental actions
- Legal protection for investments
- Timely resolution of disputes
CYMS noted that the case has already attracted both national and international attention, cautioning that continued inaction could reinforce negative perceptions about governance and accountability in Nigeria.
Call for Action and Investigation
In response, the organization urged President Tinubu to:
- Clarify the circumstances surrounding the demolition
- Ensure that due process was followed
- Facilitate fair and prompt compensation for affected parties
Additionally, CYMS called on the Federal Ministry of Works to provide a detailed account of the legal basis and processes leading to the demolition, while urging anti-corruption and oversight agencies to launch an independent investigation into the matter.
Appeal to Diaspora Investors
The group further appealed to the Association of Nigerian Diaspora Investors to suspend its planned protest and world press conference scheduled for April 20, 2026, in Washington, D.C., United States. CYMS emphasized that Nigeria must uphold the rule of law and protect legitimate investments to sustain economic growth and maintain its standing in the global investment community.
Commitment to Advocacy and Justice
Reiterating its commitment to continued advocacy, CYMS stated that they will persist until justice is achieved and accountability ensured. "Delayed justice undermines public confidence in governance and diminishes Nigeria's global standing," the group concluded, underscoring the critical need for swift action to resolve this pressing issue.
