FG Denies Asking Obasanjo Not To Use Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway

FG Denies Asking Obasanjo Not To Use Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway

The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, has refuted claims that he suggested former President Olusegun Obasanjo should not use the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway once it is completed. During an inspection tour of the project in Lagos, Umahi clarified that he had never issued such a statement. He emphasized that Obasanjo is both a former president and someone he holds in high regard, as well as a personal connection through family ties…READ MORE

Umahi explained that his original comments were aimed at the broader criticism of the road project, stating that if anyone deemed the road unfit, they had the option not to use it, but he did not single out Obasanjo.

The Minister defended the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, describing it as a crucial investment that will bring significant socio-economic benefits to the country. He rejected the idea that the project was wasteful, highlighting features such as carbon credits from concrete pavements, solar lighting, and windmill energy integration along the route.

Umahi also pointed to other ongoing projects, such as the Sokoto-Badagry Highway and the Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe Road, questioning why the Lagos-Calabar project alone was being labeled wasteful. He emphasized that the highway would drastically reduce travel time between Lagos and Calabar and serve as an evacuation corridor for industries and refineries.

Responding to concerns about potential corruption linked to the project, Umahi dismissed the claims, referencing Obasanjo’s past praise for his leadership transparency while serving as Governor of Ebonyi State. He urged Nigerians to support the project, highlighting its economic benefits and transparency.