Murray-Bruce Defends Coastal Highway Against Duke's Critique

Ben Murray-Bruce, a former Bayelsa East Senator, defended the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, countering criticisms from Donald Duke, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party. Duke questioned the highway's economic viability, labeling it a misplaced priority amid Nigeria's financial challenges.

He expressed doubts about the project's feasibility, particularly through Bayelsa State's swampy terrain, suggesting that significant costs would arise from the need for numerous bridges. Duke advocated for the rehabilitation of existing roads and investment in electricity and healthcare instead.

In response, Murray-Bruce acknowledged the project's high cost but argued that substantial infrastructure investments are necessary for long-term benefits. He recalled Duke's previous praise for the project's vision and asserted that President Tinubu is committed to funding the highway, dismissing concerns about funding shortfalls.

Murray-Bruce also defended Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri against Duke's remarks, emphasizing the importance of the highway for future generations.