By Luminous Jannamike
ABUJA – Comments made by Segun Sowunmi, a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), regarding the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project during a recent national TV interview have sparked strong reactions from Nigerians living abroad.
In a formal response issued by Faduri Oluwadare Joseph, spokesperson for Nigerians in Diaspora, the group expressed disappointment that Sowunmi’s statements failed to fully represent the concerns of investors and diaspora Nigerians whose interests are directly impacted by the ongoing project.
The statement highlighted worries that Sowunmi’s remarks seemed to minimize the valid apprehensions voiced by property owners and investors uneasy about certain facets of the project’s execution.
“It is regrettable that Mr. Sowunmi chose to address this issue on national television without thoroughly considering the perspectives of those whose properties and livelihoods stand to be affected,” Faduri emphasized on behalf of the Diaspora Foreign Investors Network.
The organization also praised Arise TV hosts Dr. Reuben Abati, Rufai Oseni, and Ayo Mairo-Ese for fostering an environment conducive to open and balanced dialogue, while urging public officials to handle such critical national matters with accurate information and sensitivity.
“The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road initiative has raised legitimate concerns among investors, property stakeholders, and Nigerians abroad. Therefore, public discourse must be anchored in factual understanding and an appreciation of the socio-economic consequences involved,” the statement added.
While recognizing the significance of infrastructure advancement, the group called for enhanced transparency and ongoing communication between government bodies and affected parties to sustain investor trust.
“Diaspora Nigerians and foreign investors have invested resources with confidence and expect that any issues impacting their investments will be managed with fairness and openness,” the statement concluded.
The Diaspora Foreign Investors Network reaffirmed its dedication to constructive dialogue on issues influencing diaspora contributions to Nigeria’s growth and urged for balanced conversations on projects of national importance.