The Edo State Assets Verification Committee has raised serious concerns regarding the Benin-Abraka road project, Phase 1C, specifically questioning the dramatic escalation of the contract sum within a remarkably short timeframe. Originally awarded to Nsik Engineering Company Ltd in May 2023 for N8 billion, the contract sum experienced two subsequent revisions, first to N12 billion and then to N16 billion, all occurring within a single year. This represents a staggering 100% increase, prompting the committee to call for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding these adjustments. The committee’s scrutiny stems from a tour of ongoing projects conducted by its sub-committee on Physical Assets and Infrastructure, led by Patrick Obahiagbon.
The project, a 17.5km stretch of road, commenced in September 2023 with an initial mobilization fee of N2.9 billion paid to the contractor based on the original N8 billion contract sum. According to the Project Manager of Nsik Engineering, Ifiokebong Ekong, the contract sum revisions occurred in June 2024, coinciding with a reduction in the project completion period from three and a half years to 18 months. This simultaneous increase in project cost alongside a shortened timeframe has raised red flags, leading the committee to suspect potential irregularities. The substantial increase without corresponding changes in the project scope has further fueled suspicions of mismanagement.
The committee’s concerns are amplified by a petition received from Edo State citizens, alleging that the contract inflation was orchestrated to finance the September 21, 2024, governorship election. This allegation aligns with the timing of the contract revisions, occurring just months before the election. The committee views this correlation as more than coincidental and demands a comprehensive investigation to determine the veracity of the claims. The dramatic cost escalation, coupled with the compressed timeline and the proximity to the election, has cast a shadow of doubt over the project’s financial propriety.
Sub-committee member Abass Braimah expressed his astonishment at the 100% increment, questioning the justification for such a drastic increase when the project specifications remained unchanged. He emphasized the unusual nature of such a significant cost revision within a single year, particularly when the scope of work remained constant. Braimah’s pointed questions underscore the committee’s determination to uncover the rationale behind these financial adjustments and to hold those responsible accountable for any potential wrongdoing. The committee’s pursuit of transparency aims to ensure that public funds are utilized judiciously and that any deviations from established procedures are thoroughly investigated.
Patrick Obahiagbon, echoing the sentiment of the committee, characterized the contract revisions as troubling and deeply concerning. He linked the project manager’s explanation to the allegations raised in the citizen petition, suggesting a possible connection between the inflated contract sum and the funding of the gubernatorial election. Obahiagbon’s statement underscores the committee’s belief that the timing of the contract revisions warrants a thorough investigation to determine whether the project was manipulated for political gain. The committee’s focus is on ensuring accountability and safeguarding public resources from potential misuse.
The Edo State Assets Verification Committee, inaugurated by Governor Monday Okpebholo, has been tasked with auditing ongoing projects across the state. This mandate includes scrutinizing budgetary provisions and the performance of contractors. The committee’s investigation into the Benin-Abraka road project is a crucial part of its broader mission to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. The committee’s findings will be presented to the state government for appropriate action, demonstrating its commitment to upholding the highest standards of integrity in public infrastructure projects. The committee’s work is vital for maintaining public trust and ensuring that development projects serve the best interests of the citizens of Edo State.
