The House of Representatives on Tuesday, during plenary, urged the Federal Government to revoke the contract for the construction of the East-West road connecting major communities in Bayelsa State, given its significance to the economy of the nation.
A member representing Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency, Bayelsa State, Oboku Oforji made the charge in a motion titled “Need to revoke the contract for the construction of flooded sections of the East-West road connecting major communities in Bayelsa State,”
He described the road “as one of the important roads in the federation which has significantly contributed to the country’s economic and social development,” as it connects major regions facilitating trade, commerce, and cultural exchange, “thus improving access to markets, industries, and social services.”
The PUNCH reports that the lawmaker told his colleagues that the Federal Ministry of Works awarded the contract for the construction of the box culverts for the repairs of the flooded section of the East-West Road (Kaiama-Ahoada Section) to Rock Result Nigeria Limited.
“The company has failed to execute the contract, thus, causing traffic disruptions and loss of lives,” he said.
Oforji noted that though the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi praised the work ethic of Result Nigeria Limited on April 11, 2024, during his inspection of the road project, nothing significant has happened since then.
He expressed worry that the FG is prioritising the Lagos-Calabar coastal road over the crucial East-West road, which he said, “Is vital to the country’s economic survival.”
Following the adoption of the motion, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Works to immediately revoke the contract for the construction of the flooded East-West Road to Rock Result Nigeria Limited and other contracts and re-award the same to a company with expertise and capacity.