CALABAR – In a bid to address concerns and seek resolution on the ongoing Calabar-Itu Federal Highway project, the Cross River South Consultative Forum led a delegation to meet with the Honourable Minister of Works, H.E Dr. Dave Umahi.
The Forum, consisting of five representatives, including Chairman Bar. Eyo Nsa Ekpo, Sir Maurice Effiwatt, Professor Emmanuel Eyo, Ntufam (Hon) Victor Okon, and Chief Ani Esin, presented a written petition to the Minister on Tuesday, 19th December 2023. Chief Okoi Obono Obla was invited to join as an observer.
Following the submission of their petition, the Honourable Minister promptly directed the Director of Federal Highways, Engr. Kuti, to convene a meeting the next day with officials from Sermatech, the construction company responsible for the project.
The meeting, held on Wednesday, 20th December 2023, saw representations from the Federal Ministry of Works (FMW), Sermatech, and the Forum in the Minister's office. The Forum's petition was read out in full, and the Chairman highlighted its main points.
Sermatech, in response, clarified that they had completed asphalt work on 10 kilometers of the highway with two bridges, emphasizing that they were awarded four out of the five bridges. They contested the Forum's claim of their stretch being 50 kilometers, stating it's actually 28 kilometers. Additionally, Sermatech pledged to finish asphalt work on another 10 kilometers of the road by March 2024 and committed to completing all work within the stipulated contract time.
Addressing the issues raised, the Honourable Minister made the following remarks:
Despite calls for the termination of Sermatech's contract, including a call from the President of the Senate, H.E Dr. Godswill Akpabio, the Minister stated that immediate termination won't occur for the following reasons:
Sermatech hasn't received any written query or warning from the Ministry, which is a condition for termination.
Citing the P&ID case, he stressed the need to avoid wrongful termination that could lead to legal complications.
Acknowledging Sermatech as the only company currently working on the road, as others have left due to financial reasons.
The Minister commended the Forum for their vigilance and patriotism, urging other host communities of Federal Government projects to take ownership, monitor, and ensure contractors are held accountable for optimal performance.
The Minister directed the Ministry's Director of Federal Highways to establish a tripartite inspection team comprising Forum representatives, Federal Ministry of Works officials, and Sermatech officials. This team will conduct a comprehensive assessment of Sermatech's work and report back to the Minister for further action.
The engagement underscores the importance of community involvement and oversight in ensuring the successful and timely completion of critical infrastructure projects.
End.