The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has accused former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, of inciting the South East (Igbo) community against the Federal Government over the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project.
Umahi made these remarks during an event in Lagos on Wednesday where compensation was distributed to those affected by the demolition of structures to make way for the project. He criticized Obi for his ongoing opposition to the project, arguing that the former Anambra governor had characterized it as a “job-losing” initiative and a “misplaced priority.”
Obi recently tweeted that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was creating unemployment and destroying businesses by demolishing structures such as the Landmark Beach Resort, valued at $200 million. He also expressed concern over the thousands of jobs at risk, noting that over 100,000 jobs in the leisure and hospitality sector could be lost, affecting 80 small businesses and their 4,000 youth employees.
Umahi rebutted Obi’s claims, pointing out that Obi had engaged in similar activities during his tenure as governor without providing compensation to those affected. He suggested that Obi’s comments were inciting some South East residents against the Federal Government, urging him to stop.
Umahi also highlighted the compassionate approach taken by the Tinubu administration, contrasting it with Obi’s previous policies. He noted that the current administration compensates individuals even if they do not have valid property documents, emphasizing the government’s “human face.”
The Minister urged the people of the South East to exercise wisdom and not fall into the trap of divisive politics. He also emphasized the Federal Government’s efforts to work with property owners to minimize the impact on existing structures.
Earlier, Maryanne, the wife of Kingsley Moghalu, the 2019 Young Progressive Party presidential candidate, had advised investors against investing in Lagos, suggesting it could be risky. This statement drew criticism from several Nigerians, including former presidential aide Reno Omokri, who called her remarks “spiteful” and “bigoted.”
