The federal government’s decision to push forward with the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project despite widespread outcry has drawn sharp criticism from Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party.
In a statement condemning the ongoing demolitions along the designated route, Obi expressed grave concerns about the impact on affected individuals and businesses.
The project, which aims to construct a highway stretching from Lagos to Calabar along the coast, has sparked outrage due to the displacement of communities and destruction of livelihoods. Reports indicate that demolition activities have already commenced in the Lagos area, leading to the loss of jobs and investments.
Obi lamented the insensitivity of the government’s approach, stating, “The sight of this insensitive demolition is heart-wrenching. Livelihoods are being wiped away, lifetime investments are being wasted, and jobs are disappearing as bulldozers roar through.”
He further highlighted the economic repercussions of the project, noting that thousands of jobs are at risk, particularly in the leisure and hospitality sector. “At a time of rampant unemployment, the government is embarking on a job-losing project,” Obi remarked, emphasizing the need to prioritize initiatives that address the nation’s pressing challenges.
While acknowledging the potential economic benefits of the highway, Obi stressed that current circumstances, including widespread insecurity and poverty, demand a reassessment of priorities. He questioned the rationale behind proceeding with the project amid the country’s worst economic state in history.
“The urgent necessities are nationwide security, poverty eradication, healthcare, and education, especially for the poor and underprivileged,” Obi asserted. He called for a halt to the Lagos-Calabar highway project and urged the government to focus on addressing existing infrastructure deficiencies and socio-economic challenges.
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The opposition figure pointed to neglected federal highway projects across the country, citing the recent fuel tanker explosion on the East-West road in Rivers State as a tragic consequence of infrastructure neglect. “Why embark on an expensive new highway project when there are close to 50 abandoned federal highway projects across the country?” Obi questioned.
In conclusion, Obi reiterated his stance against the coastal road project, emphasizing the need for prudent decision-making and allocation of resources. “We cannot afford another expensive abandoned project,” he warned, underscoring the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s development needs.
