Northern coalition under the aegis of Coalition for Justice (ACJ) has called on President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the cancellation of road project in Kankara-Dutsinma-Mararaban Kankara in Katsina State.
“We have gathered here today to express our deep concern and displeasure regarding the recent developments surrounding the award and subsequent cancellation of the contract for the Katsina-Kankara-Dutsinma-Maraba Kankara road project”, the group said.
Addressing a press conference in Kaduna, ACJ leader, Ibrahim Muhammad said: “It is well-documented that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration pledged to prioritize infrastructural development across the nation to boost the economy and create employment opportunities. True to this commitment, the administration has indeed prioritised the development of critical infrastructure, including roads and housing”.
The coalition further said: “Among these crucial projects is the Katsina-Kankara-Dutsinma-Maraba Kankara road project, a strategic roadway spanning seven local government areas in Katsina State. This road, one of the busiest in the state, was awarded a contract for total repair in April this year.
“We were elated by this development, as it promised to significantly improve the quality of life for residents of the adjoining communities and stimulate economic activities in a region plagued by banditry.
“We were alarmed to learn about the cancellation of this vital road project, which holds immense potential for the prosperity of Katsina State and Northern Nigeria. The cancellation raises several critical questions: Why Cancel a Strategic Project?
“Why would the government cancel such an economically and socially beneficial project? The road was set to enhance economic prosperity in the north and provide numerous employment opportunities for the youth.
“The Minister of Works, David Umahi, who cancelled this project, appeared to disregard the interests of the north and potentially President Tinubu.
“This cancellation could be seen as a deliberate attempt to create a rift between the president and the northern region. Moreover, it portrays the administration negatively to the people of Katsina State and the north in general. Could it be that Umahi cancelled the work because he wants to re-award it to his proxy company?
“The contract was awarded to Vipan Global Resources Limited, an indigenous contractor, following rigorous due diligence. The contractor had mobilised to the site without awaiting mobilization fees, demonstrating strong support for the administration’s infrastructural efforts. Canceling the contract is an unjust reward for their commitment.
“All necessary procedures were followed meticulously before awarding the contract. The road project was officially sanctioned on 5 April 2024, with Contract Number 8489, approved by the Bureau of Public Procurement and the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
“The contractor was instructed to commence work on 15 April 2024, and complete it by 14 April 2026. The federal ministry of works handed over the road to the contractor on 24 April 2024
“Why cancel a project that has followed due process? Is this cancellation not enough ground to show that Umahi is incompetent and does not deserve to be in the present cabinet? The same minister that presented a project, defended it before the Federal Executive Council before awarding it only to turn back in less than four months to cancel it.
“We suspect that the cancellation may be politically motivated, possibly targeting opposition figures linked to the contractor. Furthermore, the ministry’s reasons for the cancellation are not tenable, as there are projects with lesser budgetary provisions that were not cancelled. This selective cancellation, especially of a northern project, raises concerns about a potential sinister motive”.
The coalition said that, in light of the issues, “we urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and direct the Ministry of Works to reverse this decision. Canceling the project could discourage future investors who may fear that government contracts are unreliable.
“The government should consider the potential legal implications if the contractor seeks redress in court.
“We appeal to the President to allow the project to proceed in the interest of justice and fair play. We also call upon members of the National Assembly from the northwest to advocate for the reversal of this cancellation.
“We urge the president to investigate all road projects awarded by Minister David Umahi and possibly redeploy or sack a minister like Umahi whose actions have the potential to scare investors away from Nigeria.
“The coalition therefore ask the people of Katsina, particularly those in the affected communities, to remain patient and await the President’s response. We trust in President Tinubu’s reputation as a listening leader”.
