In a statement issued on Monday, Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council, conveyed Atiku’s concerns.
Atiku wants officials to disclose payments already made and identify any work affected by the revised route. He also requested the original feasibility studies, environmental assessments, route maps, bills of quantities and contract variations.
Additionally, he called for the publication of approvals issued by the Bureau of Public Procurement. These records would help Nigerians assess the contractual and financial implications of the changes.
Atiku also questioned whether the government plans to borrow additional funds to finance the highway.
He wants officials to disclose any proposed loan, its terms and the obligations it would cover. However, his statement does not confirm that the government has formally proposed or secured approval for such borrowing.
Atiku has urged the National Assembly to hold a public hearing before considering any additional financing. He wants lawmakers to examine the contracts, payment certificates, revised route plans and borrowing proposals.
Works Minister David Umahi has maintained that the 750-kilometre coastal highway remains intact. He also explained that the government is considering additional East-West Road works to address connectivity and flooding challenges in parts of the Niger Delta.
The ministry’s position focuses on engineering and connectivity needs. Meanwhile, Atiku wants access to documents showing the financial impact of the reported route changes.
The available report does not provide a complete account of the original contract, payments made or the cost implications of the revisions.
What This Means for Real Estate
The highway debate also matters to Nigeria’s property sector. Major road projects can influence property values, accessibility and development decisions along their routes.
However, investors need clear information about project alignment, funding and completion timelines to assess potential opportunities. The actual impact will depend on the final route and supporting infrastructure.
Atiku’s demand centres on transparency over the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway’s contract, payments and possible additional financing.
Publishing the relevant records would help Nigerians and lawmakers assess the project’s financial implications. For now, Atiku’s allegations do not prove wrongdoing or confirm an approved new loan. The government’s response remains crucial to resolving the outstanding questions.
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