Handled by Hitech Construction Company Limited, the project had drawn criticisms from several Nigerians, including former Vice President Abubakar Atiku and the presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi.
Both leaders raised concerns over the alleged opacity surrounding the award of the contract for the 700-kilometre highway. They emphasised the need to prioritise the funding of more critical roads across the country.