The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has condemned in strong terms, the procurement irregularities and marginalisation of the South East in federal road projects in the country.
The rights group criticised the rush and lack of transparency in awarding contracts for major highways like Sokoto-Badagry and Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway projects, which raised concerns about fairness and accountability.
HURIWA pointed out controversies surrounding project prioritisation, bidding processes, and environmental impacts.
They expressed dismay over the government‘s neglect of critical infrastructure projects in the South East while focusing on other regions, citing examples like the absence of a Lagos-Onitsha highway.
The group called for urgent action to address these disparities by prioritising transparency in procurement, and rectifying historical marginalisation of the South East.
The Civil Rights Group also stressed the need for inclusive governance and equitable resource allocation for national development.
A statement from HURIWA signed by the National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko on Friday, May 10, partly reads:
“The announcement of the initiation of the design phase for the 1,000-kilometer Sokoto-Badagry highway, purportedly on the directive of President Bola Tinubu, has triggered skepticism regarding project prioritisation.
“While infrastructure development remains pivotal for national advancement, the apparent haste and perceived lack of adherence to due process in awarding contracts for these projects have raised legitimate questions about accountability and fairness in governance.
“Of particular concern is the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which has been ensnared in controversies since its approval by the Bola Tinubu administration.
“This 700-kilometer infrastructure endeavour, hailed as a critical artery for economic growth, has been shrouded in allegations of procurement irregularities and opacity.
“Critics have highlighted disparities in the bidding process, citing instances of non-competitive bidding and alleged affiliations between the winning bidder, Hitech, and President Tinubu.
“Moreover, apprehensions have been voiced regarding the environmental ramifications of these mammoth infrastructure undertakings, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas along the coastal regions.
“The rush to expedite these projects without comprehensive environmental assessments and robust community consultations raises profound concerns about the government’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.”
