NDC Challenges President Tinubu’s Claims on Ibom Deep Sea Port
Accusations of political maneuvering arise as an approval for the port is reaffirmed by the current administration.
Background
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has raised concerns regarding President Bola Tinubu’s announcement about the Ibom Deep Sea Port, which he claimed was recently approved. The party questions why the Federal Government would reiterate approval for a project that had already been sanctioned by the previous administration of Muhammadu Buhari in December 2020.
Recent Developments
During a recent event held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, linked to projects inaugurated by Governor Umo Eno, President Tinubu disclosed the approval of the Ibom Deep Sea Port project while responding to a request for federal support.
Political Accusations
The NDC has characterized the announcement as part of a political strategy, alleging that the project has historically been used by the ruling party to garner support in Akwa Ibom State. According to Osa Director, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, questions surrounding the repeated approvals for the port are indicative of “hocus-pocus” tactics aimed at influencing voter sentiment ahead of the 2027 elections.
Historical Context
The NDC emphasized that the Buhari administration had, in December 2020, given the green light for the project, estimated to cost around $4.6 billion, and identified Bollore/Power China as the preferred bidder for its initial phase. The party argues that this prior approval should be sufficient to initiate progress on the construction.
Future Concerns
In light of these developments, the NDC expressed skepticism about the government’s commitment to fulfilling the promises related to the port. Their statement highlighted a recurring pattern of unkept commitments from the ruling party, stating, “Obviously, this is another round of cheap promises that will not be kept or honoured.”
