The Federal government has initiated compensation payments to property owners affected by the construction of the 700km Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project by setting up the Compensation Verification Committee.

According to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, verified claims will be settled within 72 hours by the contractor, Hitech Construction Ltd.

Galaxy TV reports that Umai clarified that only property owners with proven titles will receive compensation, while shanties and those with property within the 250m shoreline setback without a Federal government title would not be compensated, as it is a legal matter.

However, he stressed that compensating for such titles would necessitate a Presidential waiver, should the President deem it appropriate.
During the inauguration of the Committee in Abuja on Thursday, Umahi directed that it has a 10-day deadline to fulfill its mandate.
The Federal Controller, Lagos, Keisha is the Chairman that has the representative Federal Ministry of Works, Lagos State government, Landlord Association, traditional rulers and property owners on the axis affected by the project as well as the ESIA Consultants.

The Minister however, advised the Committee not to go beyond its Terms of Reference reviewing the proposal made by ESIA Consultants for compensation and work with all stakeholders to have this achieved.

Tasking the committee to be diligent in adhering to the dictates of the law, he said urged them to verify those who are going to be paid compensation, the authenticity of those filling for compensation, verify the dimensions, where possible, the amount and in their presence where the property owner signed.