The Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice has called for an independent investigation into the reported payment of about N14 billion for an 11-kilometer section of the Benin-Asaba-Onitsha expressway.
The civil society organization said the demand followed concerns raised by Works Minister David Umahi during an inspection of the project on August 28.
According to ANEEJ Executive Director David Ugolor, the minister said approximately N14 billion had been paid to Hartland Nigerian Limited for work between Summit Junction and Head Bridge, including drainage and hydraulic structures.
Umahi, dissatisfied with the pace of work, reportedly directed officials to locate the contractor’s managing director, recover public funds where appropriate, enforce the Advance Payment Guarantee and audit payment certificates.
ANEEJ said the disclosure raised questions about contract administration and value for money.
The organization called for publication of the contract award, total value, project scope, implementation timetable and any variations, as well as complete payment records and the names of officials who authorized certificates.
It also requested an independent technical audit to determine the actual level of completion and details of the Advance Payment Guarantee, including the issuing bank, amount, and expiry date.
ANEEJ said it had written to the EFCC, Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission, Bureau of Public Procurement, Code of Conduct Bureau, and Attorney-General of the Federation.
The group stressed that the allegations require investigation and should not be treated as proof of wrongdoing by the contractor or any public official until due process is completed.
Ugolor said the Benin-Asaba-Onitsha corridor was too economically important for questions over payments and delivery to remain unresolved.
