The Chidi Ibeh-led faction of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has urged those attacking the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, over the construction of the 700 kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, to rethink and support the project.
The group, in a statement, yesterday, by its Secretary General, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said that the criticisms do not serve the interests of the nation.
The Ohanaeze faction denounced the unwarranted vilification targeted at Umahi by Peter Obi and others. It highlighted the imperative for mutual understanding and unity in clarifying the organisation’s support for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project.
The statement reads: “The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation rises with unwavering clarity amid the tumult of baseless scrutiny and undue criticism directed at the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project, and the commendable work of the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi.
“The relentless assault on these vital infrastructure initiatives raises eyebrows, and Nigerians, particularly the Igbo populace, question the motives behind these attacks, which do not serve the interests of the nation.
“Emphatically denouncing the unwarranted vilification targeted at Umahi by Obi and others, Ohanaeze underscores the necessity for diplomatic and private engagement over public confrontations that may impede the progress of Southeastern infrastructure development.
“Ohanaeze reiterates the call for respectful dialogue and collaboration, urging Obi to eschew public acrimony and seek constructive discourse with Umahi to gain authentic insights into national development projects.”
The group said that President Bola Tinubu’s recent involvement in the reconstruction of major federal highways in the South East signifies a pivotal moment in addressing decades-long neglect of critical infrastructure in the region, a transformation facilitated by both Tinubu and Umahi through innovative cement technology.
It added: “Ohanaeze stands in solidarity with Nigerians and Ndigbo in lauding Tinubu and Umahi’s dedication to enhancing national infrastructure with human face exemplified by the recent allocation of N2.75 billion compensation funds for affected property owners along the project’s Right-of-Way.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering a harmonious environment conducive for progress and equitable development for all Nigerians.
“The organisation implores all stakeholders to prioritise collective advancement over divisive tactics and to engage in constructive dialogue that ensures the realisation of a prosperous and united nation.”
