The Ohanaeze Ndigbo has denounced the unfair criticism directed at Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, by Peter Obi and others.
Obi and his supporters had criticized the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project, led by Umahi, calling it a waste of public resources.
Ohanaeze, in a statement by its Secretary General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said it stands firm against baseless attacks and unwarranted criticism of the project and Umahi’s efforts.
The organization questions the motives behind this criticism, which seems not to be in the interest of the Nigerian people.
“In response to the recent controversies surrounding the Lagos Calabar Coastal Project, Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally denounces the unjust vilification aimed at Senator Dave Umahi by Peter Obi and other detractors.
“Setting the records straight, Ohanaeze calls for private dialogue and constructive engagements rather than resorting to public confrontations that could impede the much-needed infrastructural development in the Southeast.
“The recent expressed interest by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in reconstructing major federal highways in the Southeast is a monumental step towards remedying decades of neglect…”
Ohanaeze urged Obi to seek diplomacy and engage privately with Umahi to gain firsthand insights into critical national development projects.
The organization stressed the importance of respectful dialogue and discouraged actions that could sow discord among the Igbo community and Nigerians at large.
“…It is imperative for Peter Obi to refrain from public acrimony towards Senator Dave Umahi, a stalwart of progress and development in Nigeria and the Southeast, in recognition of the monumental efforts by President Tinubu and Umahi to rectify longstanding infrastructural deficits in the region.
“The Southeast craves an infrastructural revolution that transcends political affiliations, cherishing progress over petty opposition accolades,” Ohanaeze stated.
Ohanaeze emphasized its call for unity and mutual understanding and reiterated support for the contentious Lagos-Calabar coastal road project, asserting that the shoreline falls under the Federal Government’s Right-of-Way jurisdiction.
“Ohanaeze reaffirms the unwavering solidarity of Nigerians and the Igbo community in championing President Tinubu and Senator Umahi’s laudable efforts in advancing national infrastructure…
“In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering harmonious dialogues, unity, and progress for all Nigerians. The organization echoes a clarion call for collaborative advancement to ensure a prosperous and united Nigeria,” the body said.
