East-west road: Minister warns contractors

By Musa Adamu
Abuja

Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Usani Uguru Usani, has accused contractors handling the east-west road project of not working to justify what they had collected so far.
Speaking with contractors handling various projects, Usani said the ministry was aware that out of the total cost of the east-west road, “which is N586 billion,” N267 billion had been paid so far with no commensurate performance.

He reminded them that the relationship between government and the contractors was that of contractual obligation and that where it was found that there was a default there would be consequences.
He said: “The work must not only be delivered on time but it must also be according to the specification. Anyone who has done a job that is not up to the specification will have himself to blame.

“Nigeria has made its business environment conducive but it expects reciprocity for you. If there is anyone of you have taken money, but has not done the work, he or she should go back to the site and get the job done before we get there.
“Before we ask you, if you know you have taken government money or has any explanation to offer please come forward before we look for you.”

The minister also warned the contractors against giving anyone money purportedly for any of the ministers, appealing that they should just do their jobs, and promised that more would come their ways.
He had earlier explained that the meeting was called to get update from the contractors before they “go the sites,” adding that there would be another meeting after the visit to the site.

“We believe it is important to meet with you before going to the field and then meet again after returning from the field. We believe every contractor knows what it means to work in the Niger Delta. It is government wish that any work in that area must be pursue with every seriousness to ensure the region remain in peace.”
Responding, on behalf of the contractors, the managing director, SETRACO, Fayez Khalaf, said they had done their best to keep the work going even in the face of non cash backing from the government.
He assured that the minister would be impressed with what he would find in the field when he visits.