Recent allegations from political opponent Atiku Abubakar against President Bola Tinubu and his son Seyi Tinubu have prompted a robust response from the presidency. Accusing Tinubu of conflict of interest regarding the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway construction project, Atiku highlighted business ties between Tinubu and Gilbert Chagoury, the owner of construction company Hitech Construction Company.
The presidency vehemently refuted these claims, asserting that Seyi Tinubu’s board membership at CDK Industries Ltd, a tile manufacturing company based in Ogun State, poses no conflict of interest in the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project. In a statement issued by Tinubu’s special adviser on information and strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the presidency labeled Atiku’s accusations as distorting facts.
The Lagos-Calabar coastal highway construction project has been at the center of controversies lately, with divergent criticisms and approvals. While the Lagos State government continues demolishing facilities to expedite construction, Minister of Works Dave Umahi has supported these actions, deeming them necessary to enforce government right-of-way.
The presidency emphasized the economic strides made under the Tinubu administration, stating it has attracted significant foreign investments across various economic sectors. It highlighted impressive foreign investment figures, noting a substantial increase since Tinubu assumed office.
Atiku’s accusations were vigorously contested by the presidency, which underscored Atiku’s own implications in potential conflicts of interest during his tenure as Vice President of Nigeria. The presidency also pointed out Atiku’s actions as chairman of the National Council on Privatization, accusing him of approving the sale of numerous public enterprises to his associates.
Regarding Seyi Tinubu, the presidency asserted that as an adult who joined CDK Industries Ltd’s board in 2018, he had a legitimate right to pursue his commercial interests without interference from his father, President Bola Tinubu. The presidency also stressed that Seyi Tinubu’s links to the Chagourys were minimal, with the Chagourys being minority shareholders in the company.
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