In Nigeria, affected families sue for 1 billion naira over flooding claims
In Nigeria’s Akwa Ibom State, affected families have filed a lawsuit seeking 1 billion naira, claiming that two people died and that homes were flooded and destroyed. They link these consequences to the construction of the fourth section of the East-West Road in the Ataobong bypass area.
As Premium Times Nigeria reports, Daniel Sunday Etukudo, Monday Edoho, Anietie Henry Edoho and Miriam Ekaso filed the suit at the State High Court in Eket on behalf of the affected families. The case was assigned number HEK/20/2026.
Residents’ claims
According to residents, the roadworks altered the natural flow of rainwater, causing it to enter residential areas. They claim that this led to flooding, property damage and building collapses.
According to the publication, Isaac Nkeniye died when his house collapsed at night during rainfall. Another child from the neighboring Etito family reportedly died in a building collapse. Nkeniye’s widow, Rita, said that after the house was destroyed, she was left with her children without shelter or means of livelihood.
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Claims in the lawsuit
The defendants in the case are named as Works Minister David Umahi, contractor Gitto Construczioni General Nigeria Limited, the Akwa Ibom State Government, and Iniama and Partners, which handled property assessments for compensation.
The plaintiffs are seeking 1 billion naira in general damages for trauma suffered, the loss of resources, loved ones and businesses, as well as for land acquisitions without compensation. They also request compensation for already assessed plots of land and houses and a ban on selective payments to owners of affected property.
James Iniama, managing partner of Iniama and Partners, said payments to some property owners had begun but were later halted, and that he did not know the reasons for this. The hearing was adjourned until October 20.
