Murray-Bruce shares evidence of Donald Duke praising coastal road vision amid criticism
Former federal lawmaker Ben Murray-Bruce has responded to comments made by Donald Duke, the 2027 presidential candidate for the Peoples Redemption Party, regarding the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project. Duke, a former governor of Cross River State, recently described the project as “unbuildable” due to challenges presented by the swampy terrain in Bayelsa State.
In an interview, Duke highlighted that significant construction hurdles would arise from the need to build numerous bridges to traverse the wetland areas. “The Lagos-Calabar Road is unbuildable. You cannot even go through Bayelsa. Bayelsa is a swamp,” he stated. “You will probably have to build about 100 or 200 bridges to go through those swamps.”
Murray-Bruce took to social media to challenge Duke’s assessment. In a post on X, he shared a photograph of the two men from several years ago, standing on the coastline. He recalled that Duke had previously praised the vision behind the coastal road project during their visit.
“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,” Murray-Bruce wrote.
He acknowledged the cost associated with the project, emphasizing that significant investments are necessary for long-term development. “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 defended the ongoing work on the road, stating, “Mr. President committed to funding this project, and he is keeping that commitment. There is no funding shortfall. The work is progressing, and the quality of construction is second to none.”
He also commented on the recent praise from current Governor Douye Diri, stating that Diri’s commendation was that of a statesman recognizing infrastructure of international standard.
In conclusion, Murray-Bruce acknowledged Duke’s presidential aspirations, suggesting that political motivations might have influenced Duke’s statements. “But we must be careful never to undermine a project of national importance, or the President delivering it, simply for political advantage,” he cautioned, drawing a parallel between historic achievements and the necessity of the coastal road project.
