Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has questioned the estimated ₦15 trillion cost of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, urging Nigerians to demand greater transparency from the Federal Government. He also warned political parties and candidates against voter intimidation and electoral violence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Falana asks questions about ₦15 trillion highway
Speaking at a public event, Falana questioned reported changes to the highway's route, arguing that a project originally conceived as a coastal road appeared to be moving inland in some sections.
“The road, coastal road has now become land road,” he said, questioning the rationale behind the reported changes.
He then asked: “What are the 15 trillion naira earmarked for that road?”
Falana argued that Nigerians must demand explanations from public officials to ensure accountability for public spending.
The Federal Government's highway project is intended to connect Lagos with Calabar in Cross River State. Its cost, route and execution have attracted renewed scrutiny following reports of changes to sections of the planned alignment.
Falana warns against voter suppression
Falana also urged political candidates in Lagos to work together to protect eligible voters, regardless of political affiliation or ethnic background.
He warned that electoral violence could be used to prevent people from voting in 2027, drawing attention to concerns about intimidation and thuggery.
“Many people will not be allowed to vote,” he warned, calling on candidates across party lines to form a united effort to defend voters' rights.
He specifically condemned attempts to question people's right to vote because they do not look Yoruba or are perceived to come from another ethnic group.
Falana insisted that eligible Nigerians must be allowed to exercise their democratic rights without intimidation or discrimination.
These are two different issues, but they share a common question: who holds power accountable?
On the highway, Falana wants the government to explain how public money will be spent and why the route has reportedly changed.
On elections, he wants political parties to protect citizens' right to choose their leaders without fear.
One concerns public funds; the other concerns the public's vote.
Both depend on accountability—and on citizens being able to ask questions without being shut out of the process.
If Nigerians are expected to fund public projects and participate in democracy, shouldn't transparency and protection of their rights be non-negotiable?
