Road projects: Ohanaeze warns Rep Oseni over Umahi

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Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo sociocultural organisation, has cautioned House of Representatives member Hon. Remi Oseni from launching a campaign of defamation against Works Minister Engr. David Umahi due to the allegedly poor state of the country’s federal roads.

Ohanaeze was shocked by the House of Representatives’ recent baseless accusations against the Works Minister.

During Thursday’s House committee hearing, Remi, who represents Oyo State’s Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, asserted that Umahi has not adequately addressed the pervasive problem of decaying roads across the country.

In response to the accusations, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, said in a statement on Monday that such claims are not only misplaced but also constitute a flagrant misrepresentation of the Minister’s hard work in infrastructure development.

According to the Igbo body, it is important to remember that these assertions, made carelessly and without consideration for supporting data, are nothing more than reckless legislative rhetoric and propaganda.

It stated that Hon. Oseni’s comments are indicative of a concerning pattern that aims to discredit the outstanding work being done by Engr. Umahi.

The statement read in part: “Such statements, lacking in factual grounding, not only mislead the public but also distract from the significant progress being made in improving road infrastructure across Nigeria.

“Senator Umahi has inherited an extensive legacy of infrastructural neglect from former administrations, characterized by a plethora of unexecuted road projects and dilapidated roadways.

“Despite these inherited challenges and with the constraints of limited fiscal resources, he has exhibited remarkable resolve and professionalism in addressing the nation’s road woes.

“His track record of accomplishment in rehabilitating critical roadways is indicative of his unwavering commitment to the service of the Nigerian people.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo extends an earnest appeal to Hon. Oseni, who represents the Ibarapa/Ido Federal Constituency in Oyo State, to rise above baseless accusations and engage in constructive dialogue aimed at fostering mutual understanding.

“We implore him to undertake an on-site evaluation of the Minister’s initiatives across the country, an endeavor that would provide him with firsthand insight into the extensive measures being implemented to restore the integrity of Nigeria’s road networks.

“Such a visit would not only enlighten Hon. Oseni but would also serve as a testament to the dedicated efforts that have been prioritized to tackle the nation’s infrastructural challenges.

“It is essential to recognize that Senator Umahi has not been deterred by the barrage of unfounded criticisms or the clamor of discontent.

“His recent undertakings, including the flagging off of the Lagos to Sokoto Super Highway and the Lagos to Calabar Coastal Road projects, are profound indicators of his commitment to delivering on infrastructural promises.

“These projects aim to be completed within specified timeframes, with the first phase of the Lagos to Sokoto Super Highway expected to be concluded before 2027 and substantial components of the Lagos to Calabar Coastal Road targeted for completion by 2025.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo emphasizes the organization’s gratitude to President Tinubu for retaining Senator Umahi in his critical role as Minister of Works.

“This decision represents a significant step in ensuring that the Southeast and, indeed, the whole of Nigeria benefit from effective governance and robust infrastructural development. Ohanaeze Ndigbo unequivocally stands against any further attempts to undermine Senator Umahi’s integrity or efficacy.

“We reaffirm our stance that such unfounded attacks will not be tolerated. The commitment and professionalism demonstrated by Senator Umahi as a certified and practicing engineer are commendable.

“The Nigerian populace, particularly the Igbo nation, is confident that under his stewardship, the strategic revitalization of roads—not only limited to the high-profile projects but encompassing various other critical roadways—will be achieved.

“In light of these sentiments, we call upon the House of Representatives to approach their discussions with a spirit of respect and collaboration.

“The use of proper legislative channels to address grievances is essential; resorting to personal attacks and unwarranted criticism serves only to erode the foundations of constructive engagement.

“We urge all parties involved to focus on tangible solutions and collaborative efforts to further the greater good of the Nigerian populace, rather than indulging in divisive rhetoric.”

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