Former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, has addressed allegations that he demolished existing structures to make way for new road infrastructure during his tenure as governor.
News About Nigeria reported that Obi criticised the President Bola Tinubu-led administration over the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway Project.
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party condemned the demolitions along the proposed route, citing insensitivity and the adverse impact on livelihoods.
In response, during a stakeholder meeting in Lagos, Minister of Works David Umahi accused Obi of inciting the Southeast to rebel against the federal government over the proposed coastal route.
Umahi alleged that Peter Obi, during his tenure as governor, had carried out demolitions to make way for new road infrastructure.
Obi, however, took to his X page to issue a statement, vehemently denying the allegations.
He clarified that during his governorship, he had only initiated the removal of structures obstructing existing roads and lacking government approval.
He challenged anyone to verify instances where demolished structures were not encroaching on roads or built without approval.
“I aim to address these issues directly, devoid of political rhetoric, to ensure clarity for all. Let me be unequivocal: during my governorship, I made it abundantly clear that all structures obstructing existing roads and lacking approval would be removed.
“The circulated video clearly stated this, and I only initiated removal when construction had already commenced. Any insinuation otherwise is a blatant misrepresentation of the truth.
“I challenge anyone to verify and show me where the demolished structures on existing roads or ongoing businesses were not encroaching on the road and built without government approval while I served as governor,” he said.
The former governor provided examples, mentioning the demolition and relocation of the Onitsha North local government headquarters to restore the stadium’s original purpose.
He said that it is important to prioritise the repair and maintenance of existing infrastructure over projects risking disruption and destruction.
Obi distinguished his approach from the current coastal superhighway project, stating that he never proposed creating a new road that would disrupt existing structures.
He refuted claims of incitement against the government, asserting his commitment to constructive dialogue and inclusivity.
Furthermore, Obi rejected ethnic politics and concluded by standing by his record as governor and urging unity for a prosperous future.
“I refuse to be reduced to the level of those who wallow in ethnic politics. Worse still, I have never and can never descend so low as to base my political aspirations on any sectional or ethnic interest.
“My commitment to serving with integrity remains steadfast, and I encourage all Nigerians to unite for a prosperous future. In conclusion, I stand by my record as governor and reject any attempts to distort the narrative for political gain.”
