FG Warns Abuja–Lokoja Road Contractors of Possible EFCC, ICPC Probe Over Delays

The Federal Government has threatened to report three contractors handling sections of the Abuja–Lokoja Road to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for poor project delivery.

Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, issued the warning on Saturday during an inspection tour from Abuja to Obajana Junction in Kogi State.

Umahi expressed frustration that one contractor had managed to complete only three kilometres out of a 400-kilometre stretch, despite receiving the contract two years ago.

“The three jobs we gave out in 2023 may be facing the EFCC. We will summon them to the office and give them timelines in line with the law. If they fail, we will have no choice but to hand over the matter to the EFCC and ICPC to recover public funds,” the minister said.

While commending the quality of some completed sections, Umahi lamented the slow pace of execution. He also warned that supervising engineers who fail to report underperforming contractors would be held accountable.

The Abuja–Lokoja dual carriageway spans about 460 kilometres. Umahi explained that the Tinubu administration had already rehabilitated over 230 kilometres, leaving about 200 kilometres still in poor condition.

Highlighting contractors’ performance, he said JRB Construction had delivered over 15 kilometres of its 22-kilometre section with satisfactory results. Guild Construction, handling 53 kilometres at a cost of N56 billion, was said to be slow but producing quality work. Trucrete is currently handling 47 kilometres of reinforced concrete pavement earlier terminated from Bulletin Construction.

The minister, however, faulted Soji and some other contractors for poor performance, warning that the government would no longer tolerate such lapses.

“What Mr. President inherited is frightening. Every region has serious road challenges. Everything cannot be completed in two or four years, but we are determined to make progress. Contractors who fail to deliver will not go unpunished,” Umahi stressed.