Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has pushed back against allegations of inciting the people of the South-East against the federal government. He called such accusations a “baseless distraction” intended to defame his towering reputation.
In a statement just posted on his official X handle, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to “constructive dialogue and inclusivity” in Nigeria, rather than in divisive politics. He said he wouldn’t stoop to the level of those who engage in ethnic politics.
His X post reads,
Regarding allegations of incitement against the government, I firmly reject these unfounded accusations aimed at tarnishing my character.
My focus is on fostering constructive dialogue and inclusivity, rather than engaging in divisive politics. Claims of incitement are baseless distractions. I have always advocated for unity and advancement, refusing to partake in reactionary divisive politics.
Worse still, I have never and can never descend so low as to base my political aspirations on any sectional or ethnic interest.”
Mr. Obi is likely making a tacit reference to a speech by Nigeria’s Minister for Works, David Umahi, who over the weekend, in a speech at an event alleged that the former presidential candidate was inciting the people of South East Nigeria against the federal government.
Umahi was at odds to justify the government’s decision to construct the Lagos-Calabar coastal road, which Lagos end now runs through a major hospitality outfit, Landmark Resort, owned by a Southeasterner in Lagos. Landmark had insisted that the original plan of the road designated it considerably away from his property, but now suddenly being constructed to run right through their facility.
On Friday, all structures on the path of the new route were demolished. The government stated it is paying fair compensation to those affected.
Argument Against The Coastal Road
However, Obi’s argument against the Lagos-Calabar road is that there are many other important roads of immense economic value in horrible states scattered throughout the federation that are supposed to receive priority attention, before major new projects are embarked upon.
The 700 Km Lagos-Calabar road will cost the federation a whopping N11 trillion or about $10 billion to construct.
Please comment and share this article, & follow us on our social media handles.
WhatsApp Channel
Telegram Channel
