Former Senate President and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara, has called for a comprehensive investigation into the ₦15 trillion Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, raising concerns over transparency, procurement procedures and environmental approvals.
Wabara accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of failing to demonstrate that all legal and regulatory requirements were met in awarding and executing the major infrastructure project.
In a statement, the former Senate President questioned whether the contract complied with the Public Procurement Act 2007, particularly the provisions governing transparent and competitive bidding.
He also demanded clarification on the project’s engineering design, environmental impact assessment and the legislative approvals required for a project of such financial magnitude.
The controversy has intensified following the Federal Government’s reported decision to realign part of the highway in Ondo State towards the existing East-West Road, with Works Minister David Umahi citing environmental challenges and difficult terrain as reasons for the adjustment.
Wabara argued that the route change had raised fresh questions about whether adequate engineering studies and environmental assessments were completed before construction commenced.
He called on the relevant authorities to investigate the project’s conception, approval, contract award, funding and implementation, insisting that any irregularities uncovered should be addressed.
The PDP BoT chairman also criticised what he described as secrecy and insufficient public accountability in the management of the project.
According to him, major public infrastructure investments must be subjected to proper oversight, transparent procedures and scrutiny, irrespective of the political party in power.
Wabara stressed that Nigerians deserve clear information about how public funds are being spent, particularly amid the economic pressures facing households across the country.
His demand adds to growing calls for greater transparency surrounding the coastal highway, including questions about its overall cost, procurement arrangements and the financial implications of the recent route adjustments.
The Federal Government’s explanations and relevant project documents will be central to determining whether the concerns raised point to procedural breaches or issues requiring further clarification.
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