A bombshell has dropped in Edo State! Governor Okpebholo’s Assets Verification Committee has uncovered a jaw-dropping case of contract inflation. A road project initially valued at N8 billion ballooned to a staggering N16.4 billion in just one year under the previous administration. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the state, raising serious questions about transparency and accountability.
Here’s a quick rundown of what we know:
- Initial Contract: N8 billion awarded to Nsik Engineering Company Limited in May 2023.
- Mobilization: N2.9 billion (25% of initial contract) was paid to start the project.
- First Review: Contract sum jumped to N12 billion, which is an increase of 50%.
- Second Review: Another hike to N16.4 billion by June 2024.
- Project: Reconstruction of the Benin-Abraka Road, Phase 1C.
How Did This Happen? The Investigation Unfolds
The sub-committee on Physical Assets and Infrastructure discovered this mind-boggling increase during a site inspection. The project manager of Nsik Engineering Company Limited confirmed the initial contract sum of N8 billion. He explained that after the initial payment, the contract was reviewed upwards – not once but twice – within the space of a year! This has left many people scratching their heads.
According to the project manager, the job’s initial completion time of three and a half years was reduced to 18 months. However, the reasons for the enormous cost increases are yet to be fully explained and investigated.
The Committee’s Outrage
Engr. Abass Braimah, a member of the sub-committee, expressed his outrage at the situation. He stated that it was unheard of for a project’s value to double in such a short period without any significant changes in the scope of work. The committee further questioned how such a massive increase passed through the Tenders Board, especially since the project specifications remained the same.
He questioned the logic behind the repeated reviews, highlighting the potential misuse of public funds and raising the alarm about the potential abuse of power and procedure.
Was it for election funds?
The committee chairman, Patrick Obahiagbon, said these revelations confirm claims made in a petition from concerned citizens. The petition alleged that the contract inflations were a ploy by the former government to fund the recent governorship election. He noted that the timing of the increases – particularly the last one before the election – is highly suspicious.
The committee has vowed to recommend a full investigation and bring the culprits to book.
What’s Next?
This scandal is a wake-up call for transparency and accountability in government. The people of Edo State deserve to know how their money is spent, and it’s crucial that those responsible for this alleged fraud are brought to justice. This will be one to watch.
