Alarm Raised over Lagos-Calabar Highway Route Diversion in Ondo, Group Demands Probe

In a move that has sparked controversy, Ondo coastal communities have raised the alarm over the diversion of the Lagos-Calabar highway route, demanding a probe. According to reports in Businessday NG and Vanguard News, the community organisation, Ilaje Omuro Community Connect (IOCC), has petitioned President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, and anti-corruption agencies over the alleged realignment of the highway away from the Ondo State coastline. The group alleges that the diversion could have significant economic and environmental implications for the communities. The Lagos-Calabar highway is a critical infrastructure project aimed at boosting trade and travel between the southern states of Nigeria. The diversion, if confirmed, could affect the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the route. For the communities in question, the stakes are high, with potential impacts on livelihoods, property, and access to resources. It is unclear at this stage why the route was diverted or who is responsible. Businessday NG and Vanguard News did not report any response from the President, the National Assembly, or the relevant authorities. This story matters to Nigerian readers because it highlights the potential impact of infrastructure projects on local communities and the need for transparency and accountability in such decisions.