By Sar Terver
A heated argument erupted on Arise News Morning Show between Nigeria’s minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, and broadcast journalist, Rufai Oseni, over issues of transparency and public accountability in the ongoing Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project.
The confrontation began when Oseni demanded that the minister disclose the cost per kilometre of the highway and provide clear details about the loan obtained for the project.
Oseni insisted that Nigerians had a right to know how much each kilometre of the 700-kilometre road would cost, describing transparency as a core requirement of good governance.
He maintained that his questions were based on verifiable data and previous statements by government officials.
“You cannot tell me that we don’t have a right to know the cost per kilometre, even if it is an undulating landscape.
“Give us all the facts and details of the cost per kilometre. That is all we ask for,” Oseni said during the hot exchange.
Umahi, however, dismissed the journalist’s position, accusing him of lacking a proper understanding of engineering valuation.
The minister said the varying terrains along the project route made it difficult to assign a uniform cost per kilometre.
“You do not understand anything. I am a professor in this field,” Umahi stated, defending the government’s approach to the project.
The argument intensified when Oseni alleged that the minister had previously mentioned his name to President Bola Tinubu during a project inspection. Umahi denied the claim, saying Oseni was “too small” for him to report to the President.
Despite the heated tone, Oseni persisted with his questions, demanding clarifications on the total cost of the highway, the utilisation of the reported ₦700 billion loan, and the repayment terms attached to the facility.
He also sought explanations concerning the ongoing court case involving Winsome Homes, a company allegedly linked to the project.
Umahi however maintained that the Ministry of Works had followed due process in the award and execution of the project, stressing that the details were based on technical assessments and professional standards.
The exchange has since attracted public attention on social media, with mixed public reactions. Some Nigerians commended Oseni for demanding transparency on behalf of citizens, while others faulted his approach, describing it as “streetwise” and confrontational toward a serving minister.
The Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is one of the signature projects of the Tinubu administration. It is expected to connect nine coastal states, promote tourism, and facilitate trade along Nigeria’s southern corridor.
But, concerns persist over its total cost, funding structure, and displacement of residents along the route.
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