- LAMATA Denies Inducement Claims Over Compensation In Ojo Rail Project
- Agency said payments followed approved policies and international valuation standards
- Rail project expected to improve mobility and boost economic activity
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority has dismissed allegations that compensation paid to tenants and property owners affected by its rail project in the Ojo area was tied to inducement.
The agency said all payments were made in line with policies approved by the Lagos State Government, stressing that due process was followed at every stage.
EDITOR’S PICKS
- Judge Frees 37 Inmates Over Prolonged Detention in Akwa Ibom
- Trump Threatens Iran Over Energy Attacks
- Tinubu Excludes Kemi Badenoch from UK State Visit Itinerary
EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a statement posted on its official 𝕏 handle on Friday, March 20, LAMATA described the inducement claims as unfounded.
“LAMATA firmly rejects any suggestion of inducement. All compensation payments are strictly guided by Lagos State Government-approved policies designed to ensure fairness and support relocation,” the authority stated.
The agency added that Lagos remains the only subnational government in Nigeria that compensates tenants in such situations, citing precedents from the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Red Line and Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line projects.
LAMATA explained that compensation for affected properties was determined using globally recognised benchmarks.
“In addition, valuation of developments on lands to be acquired is done based on ‘Replacement Cost,’ in line with international standards,” the statement added.
The authority said the land was lawfully acquired in the overriding public interest to support a major rail infrastructure project aimed at easing transportation challenges.
“The land has been lawfully acquired for overriding public interest to support a critical rail infrastructure project that will move thousands of commuters daily, improve mobility, stimulate economic activity, and enhance quality of life along the Marina–Okokomaiko–Agbara corridor,” it stated.
LAMATA further highlighted the broader benefits of the project, noting that the Blue Line would integrate with the proposed Purple Line at the Volkswagen axis to strengthen connectivity across the state.
“As a public institution guided by due process and international best practices, LAMATA operates strictly within the law,” the statement added.
FURTHER READING
- AUATON Calls on Lagos Assembly to Address Ride-Hailing Challenges
- Two Students, Teacher Escape Death in Onipanu Road Accident
- Anthony Joshua Resumes Training Camp Ahead Of Summer Return
