Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Mr Peter Obi, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for proceeding with the contentious Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project despite public opposition.
He expressed disappointment that the government is moving forward with a project that jeopardizes jobs at a time when unemployment is rampant.
Obi suggested that there is still an opportunity to halt the Lagos-Calabar highway project and stressed that urgent national priorities should include security, poverty alleviation, healthcare, and education, especially for the disadvantaged.
Describing the reported demolition of businesses and homes in the designated right of way for the project as callous and distressing, Obi lamented the impact on livelihoods, investments, and employment as a result of the demolitions.
In a post on his social media platform, the former Anambra State governor criticized the swift commencement of the project in defiance of public outcry, particularly from business and property owners directly affected by the construction.
He stated, “The government’s initiation of the controversial Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project goes against reason and compassion in public policy.”
“The outcry against this project has been overwhelming given the current state of the country. However, reports indicate that demolitions in the project’s right of way have begun from the Lagos end.”
“The sight of these insensitive demolitions is heart-wrenching as livelihoods are being destroyed, investments wasted, and jobs lost. The elderly are seeing their homes overturned by bulldozers.”
“This rushed beginning ignores the widespread public outcry, especially from business owners directly impacted by the project. The upcoming phases of the project through rural areas are likely to face further public resistance.”
“Thousands of jobs are at risk, with investments exceeding $200 million in jeopardy. More than 100,000 jobs in the leisure and hospitality sector, as well as 80 small businesses with around 4000 employees, are facing closure.”
“The current economic losses are primarily concentrated in the initial kilometers around Lagos. However, the 700 km road will cut through rural regions where affected individuals lack a strong voice or influence to defend their rights.”
“Many have questioned the project’s approval process, but the government remains indifferent to concerns. While recognizing the road’s economic importance, Obi emphasized that today’s priorities, such as security and poverty, have shifted.”
“This is a time to scrutinize the justification and timing of such projects. With the nation facing severe economic challenges, essential needs like maintenance of existing highways and addressing insecurity should take precedence.”
“Given recent incidents like the fuel tanker explosion on the East-West road in Rivers State, which resulted in numerous casualties due to the neglected road conditions, investing in new projects seems impractical when numerous federal highways remain abandoned.”
“The primary focus should be on national security, poverty alleviation, healthcare, and education, particularly for the most vulnerable. Halting the Lagos-Calabar highway project is still a viable option.”
“We cannot afford another costly abandoned initiative. Nigeria’s urgent development requirements are genuine and crucial. Extravagant projects are not the solution we need at this critical juncture.”