At a stakeholders' meeting in Lagos regarding the contentious Lagos-Calabar coastal road project, Dave Umahi, Minister of Works, seized the platform to address the recent criticisms levied by Peter Obi. With tensions simmering over the coastal road's construction, Umahi vehemently accused Obi of instigating unrest among Southeast residents against the Federal Government's endeavors.
The project, aiming to stretch from Lagos to Calabar along the coastline and through eight other states, has ignited debates regarding its funding and the ramifications for local businesses slated to be affected by its construction.
Obi, known for his past gubernatorial tenure and his presidential bid in the 2023 elections under the Labour Party banner, sharply criticized the Federal Government's prioritization of the coastal road, deeming it a misplaced focus. He particularly condemned the demolition of structures to make way for the project, labeling it "heart-wrenching" and insensitive.
In a swift riposte, Umahi fired back at Obi, citing his tenure as Anambra Governor, where Obi purportedly supported similar demolitions for road infrastructure. Umahi condemned Obi's critique, asserting that compensation measures were already underway for affected property owners. He chastised Obi for allegedly inciting the Southeast populace without offering tangible solutions, cautioning against hasty judgment and urging for wisdom in navigating such matters.
Umahi refuted claims of unfair treatment towards Landmark Beach, clarifying that only shanties along the road's designated path were removed. He accused Paul Onwuanibe, CEO of Landmark Africa Group, of politicizing the project's issues for personal gain.
