The Presidency has responded to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar's allegations regarding the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway contract, dismissing his claims and questioning his moral authority to raise concerns about conflicts of interest.

Atiku had accused President Bola Tinubu of favoritism in awarding the contract to Hitech Construction Company due to alleged ties between the company's owner, Gilbert Chagoury, and Tinubu. He also raised concerns about the demolition of buildings for the highway project.

In a statement, the Presidency refuted Atiku's claims, emphasizing that he lacks the moral high ground to question conflicts of interest given his own business dealings during his tenure as Vice President. The statement pointed out Atiku's involvement in Intels Nigeria, which secured major port concession deals while he was in office.

Furthermore, the Presidency highlighted Atiku's role in approving the sale of state-owned enterprises to his associates and friends during his tenure as Chairman of the National Council on Privatization.

Regarding Atiku's allegations against Seyi Tinubu's involvement with CDK, a tiles manufacturing company, the Presidency defended Seyi's right to pursue legitimate business interests, stating that his membership on the board does not conflict with Hitech Construction Company's work on the Lagos-Calabar highway.

The Presidency also challenged Atiku's assertion that the highway project would discourage investors, citing significant foreign direct investments attracted to Nigeria under the Tinubu administration. It highlighted the growth of various sectors in the economy, including telecoms, manufacturing, and fintech.

In response to Atiku's remarks on Nigeria's economy, the Presidency dismissed reports of IMF reclassifying Nigeria's economy due to Naira devaluation as "stale news," expressing confidence in Nigeria's economic resilience and potential for growth.

Ultimately, the Presidency urged all Nigerians to prioritize national unity and economic development, emphasizing the importance of infrastructural projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in stimulating economic growth and attracting investments.