Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project Sparks more Controversy: LP, PDP, Afenifere Join Criticisms

In the midst of mounting tensions and criticisms, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project has become a focal point of controversy, drawing scrutiny from various political factions and socio-political organizations. The Labour Party (LP), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) caucus in the House of Representatives, and the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, have all raised concerns regarding the project’s execution.

The LP has called for complete transparency from President Bola Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding the motives behind the project. Similarly, Afenifere has echoed these sentiments, urging a halt and review of the project to ensure strict adherence to due process.

A member of the PDP Caucus of the House of Representatives, Rep Bamidele Salam, has emphasized the imperative of adhering to due process in the project’s execution, adding weight to the growing chorus of demands for accountability.

Allegations made by former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, concerning conflicts of interest and procedural irregularities, have further intensified the controversy. In response, Umahi’s camp has vehemently dismissed Atiku’s criticisms as politically motivated and devoid of factual basis.

Umahi’s spokesperson, Mr. Orji Uchenna Orji, accused Atiku of propagating false narratives to undermine the project’s procurement process. He emphasized the project’s compliance with procurement regulations and its critical role in national development.

The LP has urged the government to address allegations of impropriety surrounding the project, stressing the urgent need for clarity amid prevailing economic challenges.

Assurances from the National Assembly regarding adequate budgetary provisions for the project have been met with skepticism from the PDP, who denounced what they perceive as misinformation from the APC.

Chairman of the Joint National Assembly Committee on Works, Senator Barinada Mpigi, affirmed the legislature’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the project’s timely completion and securing adequate funding.

Afenifere has called for a comprehensive re-evaluation of the project, citing pressing environmental and economic concerns. They emphasized the necessity of compliance with environmental regulations and conducting thorough impact assessments.