The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has urged those attacking the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, over the construction of the 700-kilometre Lagos-
The group, in a statement on Sunday by its Secretary-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, said the criticisms do not serve the interests of the nation.
Ohanaeze emphatically 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 read, “Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the revered apex Igbo socio-cultural organization, rises with unwavering clarity amidst the tumult of baseless scrutiny and undue criticism directed at the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project and the commendable work of Senator Dave Umahi, Minister of Works.
“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 Senator Dave Umahi by Peter Obi and others, Ohanaeze Ndigbo underscores the necessity for diplomatic and private engagement over public confrontations that may impede the progress of south-eastern infrastructure development.
“Ohanaeze reiterates the call for respectful dialogue and collaboration, urging Peter Obi to eschew public acrimony and seek constructive discourse with Senator Umahi to gain authentic insights into national development projects.”
Ohanaeze said 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.
“Ohanaeze stands in solidarity with Nigerians and Ndigbo in lauding President Tinubu and Senator Umahi’s dedication to enhancing national infrastructure with human Face exemplified by the recent allocation of a N2.75bn compensation fund for affected property owners along the project’s Right-of-Way.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering a harmonious environment conducive to 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 realization of a prosperous and united nation,” the group added.
