Senator Ben Bruce has responded to comments by Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) presidential candidate Donald Duke on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, expressing surprise at his stance and defending the project as a necessary national investment.
In a public post addressed to Duke, Bruce recalled that the two had previously travelled along the stretch of coastline where the road now runs, during which Duke had praised the vision behind the project.“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,” Bruce wrote.
He acknowledged that the Coastal Highway is expensive but insisted that projects of lasting value are never cheap or free. Bruce argued that great nations are built by leaders willing to make bold, costly investments that will benefit generations yet unborn.
Bruce stated that President Bola Tinubu committed to funding the project and is keeping that promise, adding that there is no funding shortfall. He said construction is progressing steadily and that the quality of work is of the highest standard.
The senator also backed Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri’s recent commendation of the road. He said Diri was not speaking merely as a local champion but as a statesman recognising infrastructure of international standard.
Bruce noted that he understands Duke is running for president and that his comments form part of the political season. While respecting Duke’s right to present his case to Nigerians, he cautioned against undermining 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,” Bruce concluded.
