Obi Replies Presidency, Umahi on Coastal Highway Project, Says Accusations Divisive

*Insists project not priority

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has reacted to  the allegations of incitement leveled against him by  the federal government over his position that the trillions of Naira Coastal Highway Project was not a priority in today’s Nigeria.

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, had Wednesday said Obi was inciting the South East against the federal government.
But Obi, who insisted that his position on the coastal road project remained the same, stated that the allegations of inciting the people were divisive actions to distract the people from the main issue he raised, that such a project would lead to loss of jobs and increase hunger and spread poverty in a land already troubled

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He however, said priority should be put on internal roads first to move the economy forward.
A statement by his Chief Spokesman, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, Obi said, “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 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 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,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor, insisted that the circumstances were different and wondered why they were not addressing the issue of poverty that was fast spreading in the country.

“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,” he explained.