• Thu. Feb 13th, 2025

CISLAC Demands Transparency In Abuja -Kaduna Highway Contract

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called on the federal government to address concerns surrounding the re-award of the Abuja-Kaduna highway contract, urging transparency and accountability in the procurement process.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, CISLAC criticized the lack of clarity in awarding the N252.89 billion contract after its revocation from Julius Berger Nigeria Plc over pricing disputes and project delays.

The organization highlighted the confusion over the awarded contractor, with reports conflicting between “Infoquest” and “Infiouest” Nigeria Limited, raising questions about the government’s adherence to public procurement laws.

CISLAC expressed concerns that the process may have violated Nigeria’s Public Procurement Act of 2007, which mandates competitive and transparent contracting to ensure accountability and value for public funds.

“The manner in which the re-award of the contract was handled may represent a blatant violation of procurement laws and corporate governance principles,” CISLAC stated.

The group also criticized the lack of due diligence in selecting a contractor for such a significant infrastructure project, warning that awarding high-value contracts to companies with disputed credentials undermines public trust.

CISLAC called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order a thorough investigation into the re-award process and hold those responsible accountable. The group also urged anti-corruption agencies to probe the matter, given the importance of the highway to national development and security.

“We demand full disclosure of the bidding process, including the evaluation criteria and the rationale for selecting the company awarded such a large-scale infrastructure project,” Rafsanjani said.

The advocacy group emphasized the need for reforms in Nigeria’s procurement system, recommending stricter oversight mechanisms and enhanced transparency measures to prevent similar controversies in the future.

“We will not relent in our efforts to ensure that public resources are utilized for the benefit of all Nigerians,” Rafsanjani affirmed.

The Abuja-Kaduna highway is a critical link for economic activities and citizen mobility, and its effective management is essential for public safety and national progress. The controversy surrounding the contract re-award has sparked widespread criticism, with many Nigerians questioning the government’s commitment to transparency.

As pressure mounts, stakeholders continue to demand accountability, urging the federal government to prioritize due process in future contracts to safeguard public resources.

Hyacinth Beluchukwu Nwafor

Hyacinth Beluchukwu Nwafor is a seasoned journalist and the CEO/Founder Belch Digital Communications, publishers of Hybrid News Nigeria.

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