Politics
Obi Counters Umahi’s Claims He Also Destroyed Structures As Gov
Peter Obi, has reacted to reports that he destroyed existing structures while constructing roads, during his tenure as governor of Anambra State rebuffing counters to his opposition to the priority being given to the construction of the new Lagos-Calabar Coastal highway.
Obi, the 2023 Labour Presidential candidate and former governor of Anambra State, took to his Official X handle on Thursday morning, to address the assertions, saying: “It has come to my attention, and I strongly denounce the distortion of facts surrounding my actions and statements during my tenure as governor of Anambra State, particularly concerning the ongoing demolitions for the construction of the Lagos-Calabar coastal super highway.
“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.”
Obi continued, “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.”
Providing further clarity, with concrete examples, the former governor said, “I decisively demolished the Onitsha North local government headquarters situated on the only existing stadium, relocated, and built a brand new structure for the local government office away from the stadium.
“This action was necessary to restore the stadium to its original purpose as a sporting facility for the people. Subsequently, the stadium was rightfully named after the first owner of the first football club figure in Nigerian club figure in Nigerian sports, Chuba Ikpeazu.”
Also giving another instance to buttress his argument, he added, “Similarly, the Onitsha South Stadium, the sole local playing ground for the community, was converted into a local government office. Recognizing the importance of recreational spaces.
“I reverted it to its original status by demolishing and relocating the local government office. I then renovated the stadium and renamed it after the longest-serving Green Eagles captain, Godwin Ac
“My actions were strategic, aiming to prioritize the repair and maintenance of existing infrastructure over projects that risked disruption and destruction. This approach aimed to safeguard the livelihoods of Nigerians and ensure the efficient use of resources.”
Specifically on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway construction, Obi explained, “It is crucial to clarify the false comparisons drawn between my actions on Brewery Road and the current coastal super highway project. I never proposed creating a new road that would disrupt existing structures.
“Instead, I focused on removing obstructions on existing roads to enhance accessibility and safety for all. The ongoing destruction and disruption of jobs and livelihoods associated with the Lagos-Calabar coastal road construction sharply contrasts with my administration’s efforts to improve infrastructure while minimizing adverse impacts on communities.
Regarding allegations of incitement against the government, I firmly reject these unfounded accusations aimed at tarnishing my character.
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