Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for proceeding with the controversial Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project despite widespread opposition.
Obi expressed dismay that the government is pursuing a project that will threaten jobs at a time of high unemployment. He emphasized that addressing urgent necessities such as national security, poverty eradication, healthcare, and education for the underprivileged should be the priority.
Obi described the reported demolition of businesses and residences in the project’s right of way as insensitive and distressing. He lamented that livelihoods are being destroyed, investments wasted, and jobs lost as a result of the demolition.
In a social media post on Tuesday, Obi noted that the project’s hasty launch defies public outcry, particularly from businesses and property owners directly affected.
“Contrary to reason and the need for compassion in public policy, the federal government has commenced the controversial Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project,” Obi wrote.
“The outcry against this project has been overwhelming due to the current situation in the country. However, reports indicate that demolition has commenced from the Lagos end.”
“The sight of this insensitive demolition is heart-wrenching. Livelihoods, investments, and jobs are disappearing as bulldozers roar through.”
Obi raised concerns about the potential loss of thousands of jobs and investments exceeding $200 million. He highlighted that over 100,000 jobs in the leisure and hospitality sector, as well as 80 small businesses with 4,000 employees, face extinction due to the project. CONTINUE READING
Leave a Reply