Segun O’Law, Media CEO of Objectv Media, has publicly accused the Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, of issuing threats against him following a dispute over the realignment of the Lagos-Calabar coastal road and related reporting. O’Law made the allegations during a press briefing at the International Press Center (IPC), Ogba, Lagos, citing concerns for his safety and press freedom.
According to O’Law, the incident began on Sunday, March 8, when he received a WhatsApp message from an unknown number. The sender, who later identified himself as the Minister of Works, allegedly demanded a public apology from O’Law for sharing a video showing Umahi admitting to allegedly using his office to frustrate the CEO of WinHomes Estate, Mrs. Stella Ukengu.
The video, initially recorded discreetly during a protest at the Ministry of Works in Abuja in August 2025, captured discussions about the controversial coastal road realignment, which displaced several developments, including WinHomes Estate. Protesters had demanded adequate compensation for affected residents. O’Law was present as a journalist during a delegation meeting with the Minister, alongside civil society representatives and legal counsel for WinHomes.
O’Law claims that during the meeting, Umahi boasted about being “a dangerous man” and revealed that he had taken steps to prevent the restoration of affected properties, including a portion of WinHomes Estate. He also reportedly indicated plans to repurpose remaining land for other public infrastructure, including a toll gate.
Following the meeting, O’Law says the Minister publicly contradicted his earlier statements, dismissing the protesters’ claims and threatening punitive actions against Mrs. Ukengu. O’Law insists he has never shared the footage publicly for personal or political gain, but only to preserve a record of events for accuracy.
In his press statement, O’Law expressed fears for his safety, citing prior intelligence warnings and alleged attempts to track him through his phone. He urged the public, Nigerian authorities, and international human rights organizations to monitor his wellbeing, emphasizing that he remains committed to exposing the truth and upholding press freedom.
O’Law concluded by stating that he is in good health, has no personal conflicts that could justify threats, and warned that any harm that comes to him should be attributed to the Minister.
The controversy underscores ongoing tensions between media practitioners and government officials in Nigeria, particularly over infrastructure projects and the treatment of displaced communities.
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