Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi, has responded to allegations from the Federal Government and Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, regarding his stance on the Coastal Highway Project. Obi maintains that the project is not a priority for Nigeria at this time and has accused the government of attempting to distract from the issue at hand.
Obi stated that the project would lead to job losses, increased hunger, and poverty, and emphasized the need to prioritize internal roads first to boost the economy. He also addressed allegations of incitement, calling them “divisive actions” aimed at tarnishing his character.
Additionally, Obi clarified his actions as Governor of Anambra State, where he demolished structures obstructing existing roads and lacking approval. He challenged anyone to verify and show where the demolished structures were not encroaching on roads or built without government approval.
Obi’s response comes after the Federal Government and Umahi accused him of inciting the public against the Coastal Highway Project, which he has repeatedly stated is not a priority for Nigeria. The Labour Party has also released a statement supporting Obi’s stance and calling for an end to the “protracted minimum wage negotiation”.
Below are Obi’s responses to the FG’s attack on him.
“It has come to my attention, and I strongly denounce the distortion of facts surrounding my actions and statements during my tenure as governor of Anambra State, particularly concerning the ongoing demolitions for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal super highway. I aim to address these issues directly, devoid of political rhetoric, to ensure clarity for all.
“Let me be unequivocal: during my governorship, I made it abundantly clear that all structures obstructing existing roads and lacking approval would be removed. The circulated video clearly stated this, and I only initiated removal when construction had already commenced. Any insinuation otherwise is a blatant misrepresentation of the truth. I challenge anyone to verify and show me where the demolished structures on existing roads or ongoing businesses were not encroaching on the road and built without government approval while I served as governor.
“To provide further clarity, consider concrete examples. I decisively demolished the Onitsha North local government headquarters situated on the only existing stadium, relocated, and built a brand new structure for the local government office away from the stadium. This action was necessary to restore the stadium to its original purpose as a sporting facility for the people. Subsequently, the stadium was rightfully named after the first owner of the first football club figure in Nigerian sports, Chuba Ikpeazu, as a tribute to our commitment to honoring our heroes.
“Similarly, the Onitsha South Stadium, the sole local playing ground for the community, was converted into a local government office. Recognizing the importance of recreational spaces, I reverted it to its original status by demolishing and relocating the local government office. I then renovated the stadium and renamed it after the longest-serving Green Eagles captain, Godwin Achebe.
“My actions were strategic, aiming to prioritize the repair and maintenance of existing infrastructure over projects that risked disruption and destruction. This approach aimed to safeguard the livelihoods of Nigerians and ensure the efficient use of resources.
“It’s crucial to clarify the false comparisons drawn between my actions on Brewery Road and the current coastal super highway project. I never proposed creating a new road that would disrupt existing structures. Instead, I focused on removing obstructions on existing roads to enhance accessibility and safety for all.
“The ongoing destruction and disruption of jobs and livelihoods associated with the Lagos-Calabar coastal road construction sharply contrasts with my administration’s efforts to improve infrastructure while minimizing adverse impacts on communities.
“Regarding allegations of incitement against the government, I firmly reject these unfounded accusations aimed at tarnishing my character. My focus is on fostering constructive dialogue and inclusivity, rather than engaging in divisive politics. Claims of incitement are baseless distractions. I advocate for unity and advancement, refusing to partake in reactionary politics. My commitment to serving with integrity remains steadfast, and I encourage all Nigerians to unite for a prosperous future.
“In conclusion, I stand by my record as governor and reject any attempts to distort the narrative for political gain. My commitment remains unwavering: to advocate for the rights and well-being of all Nigerians, ensuring that development initiatives prioritize the needs of the people. -PO
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