Former Senator representing Bayelsa East, Ben Murray-Bruce, has said presidential candidate Donald Duke was being political when he criticised the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway.
Murray-Bruce recalled how Duke praised the vision behind the road being built by President Bola Tinubu's administration.
"Some years ago, you and I travelled along the stretch of the coastline where this road now runs, and I clearly remember your praise for the vision behind it. That is why your recent comments surprised me.
"Yes, the Coastal Highway is expensive. We agree on that. But nothing of lasting value in this world is cheap or free. Great nations are built by leaders willing to make bold, costly investments that will serve generations yet unborn," Murray-Bruce said.
He said President Tinubu is committed to funding the project and is keeping that commitment, noting that there is no funding shortfall. The work is progressing, and the quality of construction is second to none.
"When Governor Douye Diri commended the road, he was not speaking as a local champion; he was speaking as a statesman who recognises infrastructure of international standard when he sees it. I agree with him completely.
"Donald, I understand that you are running for president, and that your statement is political. That is the nature of the season, and I respect your right to make your case to Nigerians. But we must be careful never to undermine a project of national importance, or the President delivering it, simply for political advantage.
"When mankind went to the moon, it was neither cheap nor free. But it was necessary. So is this road," he said.
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