Umahi counters Atiku, promises full disclosure of Lagos-Calabar costal highway costs

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, criticized former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s remarks regarding the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project during an inspection in Port Harcourt. Atiku, the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, alleged secrecy surrounding the N700km road project and criticized its award to Tinubu ally Gilbert Chagoury’s Hitech without competitive bidding.

Umahi deemed Atiku’s statement unfortunate, asserting the ex-Vice President’s lack of understanding of figures. Umahi emphasized his intention to address the matter at a world press conference in Lagos, inviting Atiku to discuss any procurement concerns directly with him and urging him to refrain from targeting the President. Umahi highlighted his extensive experience in governance and stressed the prudent management of projects under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Umahi pledged to disclose the project’s cost to the public and emphasized his expertise in engineering and project management. He underscored the economic benefits of the coastal road, which will enhance connectivity across regions.

In response, Atiku’s Special Assistant, Paul Ibe, challenged the Tinubu administration to reveal the project’s cost, asserting that transparency is essential for accountability. Atiku presented a series of inquiries demanding clarity from the administration.