Coastal Calamity: Obi Decries Job Losses, Investment Wipeout In Highway Project

• Peter Obi criticizes demolition for Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project

• Says lifetime investments and jobs are being destroyed

• Calls it a misplaced priority given insecurity and poverty

Eko Hot Blog reports that Peter Obi Slams FG Over Lagos-Calabar Highway Demolition

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the Federal Government for demolishing businesses and residences along the designated right of way for the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project.

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In a statement titled “Lagos-Calabar Highway: FG adamant on a Misplaced Priority,” Obi described the demolition as insensitive, stating that lifetime investments and jobs are being destroyed for the sake of the project.

Timing of the Project Questioned

Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, questioned the timing of the project, stating that the government is embarking on a job-losing project at a time when unemployment is ravaging the country.

Economic Value Acknowledged, But Insecurity and Poverty Rampant

While acknowledging the economic value of the road, Obi noted that insecurity and poverty are rampant. Consequently, placing the Lagos-Calabar Highway project over other urgent necessities would be a misplaced priority.

Livelihoods and Investments at Risk

The statement read, “Livelihoods are being wiped away, lifetime investments are being wasted, and jobs are disappearing as bulldozers roar through.”

Job Losses and Business Closures Expected

Furthermore, Obi warned that thousands of jobs are about to be lost, with investments above $200 million at risk, and over 100,000 jobs in the leisure and hospitality sector face imminent extinction, along with 80 small businesses and their 4000 mostly youth employees.

“Deaf to Reason and Caution”

According to Obi, “Significant sections of the public have questioned the process preceding the project’s approval, yet the government remains deaf to reason and caution.”

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Focus on Necessities Called For

Obi argued that the nation’s urgent necessities are nationwide security, poverty eradication, healthcare, and education, especially for the poor and underprivileged.

Moreover, stating, “It’s not too late to discontinue the Lagos-Calabar highway project. We cannot afford another expensive abandoned project.”

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