Drama as Tinubu snubs Sanwo-Olu at Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway opening

There was a mild drama on Saturday during the inauguration of the first phase of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway as President Bola Tinubu notably snubbed Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The ceremony marked the completion of phase one, section one of the project—a 30-kilometer, six-lane stretch in the commercial hub.

Several prominent figures were present, including former Senate President Ahmed Lawan, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri, and Cross River Governor Bassey Otu.

As the president greeted officials lined up at the event, he shook hands with the dignitaries. However, upon reaching Governor Sanwo-Olu, Tinubu ignored him and instead extended his hand to Ahmed Ododo, Governor of Kogi State, who stood next in line.

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The highway’s construction began in March 2024, with Hitech Construction Company Ltd awarded the contract for the initial 47.47 kilometers of dual carriageway. President Tinubu officially launched the project in May of the same year.

The highway development has not been without controversy, sparking debate over the demolition of beachside structures and questions regarding the transparency of the contract award process and its financial implications.

Speculation has circulated about a strained relationship between Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu, particularly following the impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State Assembly.

Obasa was removed in February due to allegations of financial misconduct but was reinstated 49 days later, reportedly after intervention by Tinubu.