Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed concerns over the cost of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, stating that the project’s cost was inflated. He made this statement on Wednesday, calling for an independent value-for-money audit to be conducted on the project. Atiku emphasized that payments for the project should be suspended until it is confirmed that the project genuinely serves the national interest.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, unveiled by the Tinubu administration, has been a subject of controversy due to its high cost. Atiku initially raised an alarm over the project’s cost, which he claimed was inflated to N8 billion per kilometer. However, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, dismissed this claim, stating that the cost would be closer to N4 billion per kilometer.
In a recent turn of events, Minister Umahi has acknowledged that the actual cost of the project is indeed closer to N8 billion per kilometer, vindicating Atiku’s initial claim. This admission has raised concerns over the transparency of the Tinubu administration in managing the project, which is one of the most expensive infrastructure projects in Nigeria’s history.
Atiku’s Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, released a statement highlighting the former vice president’s concerns. The statement emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the management of public funds, particularly for large-scale projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project aims to improve transportation and economic development in the region. However, the controversy surrounding its cost has sparked debates over the effective use of public resources. As the project continues to unfold, it is essential to ensure that the interests of the Nigerian people are prioritized, and that the project is executed in a transparent and accountable manner.
The call for an independent audit and the suspension of payments until the project’s value is confirmed underscores the importance of fiscal responsibility and transparency in government projects. As the situation develops, it is crucial to monitor the progress of the project and ensure that the Nigerian government is committed to delivering value for money to its citizens.