The House of Representatives announced yesterday that the controversial Lagos-Calabar coastal highway was undertaken without the approval of the National Assembly. It further resolved to scrutinize the procurement process of this project.
In a bid to ensure transparency and adherence to due process, the House called upon the Minister of Works, Minister of Finance, and the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice to submit all project guarantees and credit enhancement instruments for approval by the National Assembly.
Additionally, the Green Chamber tasked its committees on Procurement and Works to delve into the procurement process of the contract for the coastal highway project.
The initiative to investigate stems from concerns raised by various stakeholders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, urging the Federal Government to provide clarity regarding the project.
The motion, titled “Urgent need to investigate the procurement process and award of contract for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway’’, was tabled by Austin Achado (APC-Benue) during the plenary session in Abuja.
Achado emphasized that the contract’s award lacked proper procedure and did not secure the required approval from the National Assembly. He highlighted discrepancies regarding debt guarantees and procurement strategies, citing violations of pertinent laws and regulations..
The project, aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure, particularly for the movement of goods and services across the nation, raised eyebrows due to its financing structure and procurement methods.
Concerns were raised regarding the adherence to the Public Procurement Act of 2007 and the Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission Act of 2005, indicating potential breaches in procurement protocols..
The House has mandated its committees to conclude the investigation and report back within four weeks, signaling a commitment to upholding accountability and transparency in government projects.