By Ekeng Inyang
The House Committee on Niger-Delta headed by Rt. Hon. Apostle Essien Ekpenyong Ayi, member representing Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South Federal Representatives had embarked on a week long oversight to ascertain the level of contract execution and funds utilization for the purpose of which it was budgeted for.
The team expressed dissatisfaction at the slow pace at which the repair of Atimbo/Ikang road and the substandard materials used which had already started manifesting by potholes.
However, the community took to protest the recalcitrant approach of the contractors to the project.
A community leader which led a team to the spot claimed the contractors had to hurriedly fill “stone base” on the road in the evening, working overnight till 5:00am when they got wind of the Committees’ move.
The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Essien Ayi assured the youths and community leaders to take up the matter with the Ministry and sue defaulters for fraud which he noted has caused “suffering” for his people.
Hon. Essien who accosted the contractors of embarking on contracts without first consulting with the owners of the land for accountability and community oversight noted that he personally effected the construction of that said road to ease the suffering of his people.
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| Potholes along Atimbo/Ikang road during construction |
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| Hon. Essien Ayi with other Committee members addressing press |
Other site inspection reveal absolutely diversion of funds for what was meant to be a skills acquisition center that has never been put to use but constantly budgeted for.
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| Skills Acquisition Center-Akpabuyo |
Also, an abandoned housing scheme at Bakassi Local Government Area with concerns of proper allocation to the originally designated persons.
Notably was the failure of Niger-Delta to pay for the agreed some as was agreed by the Community and security staff for the past five years.
Notably was the failure of Niger-Delta to pay for the agreed some as was agreed by the Community and security staff for the past five years.
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| Bakassi Housing Scheme |
Further investigation by the committee revealed that the contract for security for the Bakassi scheme was awarded to a Rivers State indigene who engaged resident youths in the Local Government who have not been paid for five years still.