Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has criticised Minister of Works, David Umahi, for what he described as evasiveness regarding the cost breakdown of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. Makinde, reacting to Umahi’s recent television clash with journalist Rufai Oseni, said Nigerians deserve clarity on how public funds are spent.
He argued that providing an average cost per kilometre should not be difficult, citing his administration’s transparency in past projects. Makinde compared the figures from Oyo–Iseyin and Iseyin–Ogbomoso roads, noting that public accountability is crucial for trust and fiscal responsibility.
The coastal highway, a 700km project spanning nine states, has drawn widespread debate over its funding, pricing, and execution process. Makinde’s comments add weight to growing calls for transparency in major federal infrastructure projects.