As the controversy over the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway intensifies, the Federal Ministry of Works has invited the governors of Akwa Ibom and Cross River States to deliberate on the way forward.
Also invited to the meeting are the Senate and Federal House of Representatives Committees on Works, Honourable Ministers of relevant ministries, royal fathers, technocrats, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), major telecommunication service providers, and other stakeholders, including the media.
In a statement, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, said the meeting will discuss the alignment for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, focusing on the 38km section 3A in Cross River State, 27km section 3B, and 80km section 4 in Akwa Ibom State. Additionally, the design of the 92km Cross River segment of the Calabar-South East-North Central-Apo (Abuja) Superhighway by the African Trans Sahara highway will be reviewed.
The construction has sparked significant controversy among political figures, opposition parties, host communities, and human rights activists. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar opposed the project, citing concerns that the contract was awarded to Hitech Construction Company Nigeria Limited due to a personal relationship between the President of Nigeria and the Chairman of Hitech, Chagoury. He also criticized the hasty demolition process, suggesting it poses a threat to foreign investment.
Conversely, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, argued that the project’s timing is inappropriate given the severe economic hardships citizens are facing. Host communities have also expressed concerns over inadequate compensation for demolished investments.
