Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi, has insisted that his position on the multi-trillion naira Lagos to Calabar coastal super highway project remains despite the allegations of incitement from the Federal Government.
Obi had voiced out that the trillions of Naira coastal highway project is not a priority in today’s Nigeria. He also stated that priority should be put on internal roads first to move the economy.
Following his comments, the Federal Government through the minister of works, Engr Dave Umahi, accused Obi of trying to incite South-East people against the government.
Also doubling down on the attack on Obi, Bayo Onanuga, Senior Spokesperson to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, supported Umahi’s assertions.
Onanuga had taken to his X account on Thursday to further berate the former Anambra State Governor also accusing him of hypocrisy.
“Works Minister Engineer Dave Umahi underscores Peter Obi’s hypocrisy on the Lagos-Calabar superhighway. He also chides Obi for inciting gullible Igbo against the Tinubu administration.”
Responding via his X account, formerly Twitter, Obi said FG’s claims are divisive actions to distract people from the main issue he raised.
The former Anambra State Governor took time to react to the demolition which took place during his tenure and said the circumstances were different and wondered why the Federal Government was not addressing the issue of poverty which he said was spreading like wildfire.
“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 Superhighway. 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 honouring our heroes,” Obi said.
The former presidential candidate noted that the ongoing destruction and disruption of jobs and livelihoods associated with the Lagos-Calabar coastal road construction sharply contrasts with his administration’s efforts to improve infrastructure while minimising adverse impacts on communities.
Obi then rejected as unfounded accusations, the allegations of incitement against the government, saying it was aimed at tarnishing his character.
He restated his unwavering commitment to advocate for the rights and well-being of all Nigerians by ensuring that development initiatives prioritise the needs of the people.
“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,”
“I refuse to be reduced to the level of those who wallow in ethnic politics. Worse still, I have never and can never descend so low as to base my political aspirations on any sectional or ethnic interest.
“I refuse to be reduced to the level of those who wallow in ethnic politics. Worse still, I have never and can never descend so low as to base my political aspirations on any sectional or ethnic interest.
“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. Most importantly, I will continue to insist that our national resources be applied with maximum frugality,” Obi said.
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