Afenifere slams coastal highway realignment, demands fairness

Afenifere, the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, has criticized the Federal Government’s decision to alter the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway route. Specifically, the group opposes excluding Ondo and Delta states from the project. Additionally, Afenifere doubts the sincerity of Works Minister Dave Umahi regarding the highway’s implementation.

Speaking at Akure Airport, Afenifere’s Secretary-General, Sola Ebiseni, called the decision unfair. He emphasized that Ondo and Delta states contributed resources to fund the project. Meanwhile, Lagos State, included in the original plan, continues to benefit disproportionately. Ebiseni stressed that other regions deserve equal consideration.

Historically, the road project traces back to the early 1900s when Ondo’s Ilaje territory belonged to Lagos Colony. Initially, the route followed a telegraphic line linking Lagos Colony to Calabar, then the Southern Protectorate’s headquarters. An 1904 agreement between colonial governors Sir William MacGregor and Sir Wyndham Roseberry formalized this alignment.

Ebiseni acknowledged President Tinubu’s bold initiative but condemned recent changes. The Works Minister announced the highway would only follow Lagos’s coastline, ignoring oil-rich areas like Ondo and Delta. Ebiseni questioned why these critical regions were excluded despite their economic contributions.

“Why shouldn’t Tinubu face accusations of favoring Lagos’s real estate over oil-producing states?” Ebiseni asked. He warned that such decisions breed distrust and allegations of bias. Furthermore, he urged the government to revise the plan to ensure equitable development.

The Lagos-Calabar Highway remains a vital infrastructure project for Nigeria’s economic growth. However, Afenifere insists transparency and inclusivity are essential. Without fair implementation, public trust may erode, harming national unity. The group demands immediate action to address these concerns.

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