The Federal Government has raised fresh alarm over what it describes as widespread sabotage of critical infrastructure, with the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway emerging as a major flashpoint.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, told journalists in Abuja on Thursday that vandalism, illegal activities and indiscriminate waste disposal are undermining federal investments in roads and bridges across the country.
Describing the situation as “alarming and unsustainable,” Umahi said the ministry is locked in a “daily fight” to prevent the destruction of public assets.
According to the minister, protective installations along sections of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway have been repeatedly cut and stolen, despite heightened security presence.
Umahi linked recent flooding along the corridor to refuse dumped into underground drainage systems.
“The flooding of the coastal highway was because our underground drainage channels were blocked. People dump refuse inside the manholes and underground channels. When those channels are blocked, water has nowhere to go. That is the basic reason for flooding seen on the coastal road, and I think for most places in Lagos. The public has a duty to protect public assets. We are doing everything possible to ensure the coastal highway is free and functional, but citizens must also play their part,” he said.
He disclosed that he personally inspected affected areas in Lagos two weeks ago and commended the state government and police for deploying operatives to curb vandalism.
