The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to Julius Berger and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), signaling possible contract terminations related to the Calabar Itu Road project.
Minister of Works, David Umahi, voiced his dissatisfaction during a Stakeholders’ Engagement in Uyo, where he demanded swift action from the contractors.
Umahi emphasized the urgency of reactivating the construction companies to their project sites within a week. Failure to comply could result in the termination of their contracts.
The minister underscored that adequate funds for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway projects had been allocated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging immediate mobilization from both Julius Berger and CCECC.
“We use this opportunity to warn CCECC, out of 35 kilometres, they just completed 2.5 kilometres double carriage way and 4.5 on single; that is very terrible. You talk to them, they say it is because of compensation,” Umahi stated, addressing the stakeholders.
He also noted the resolution of compensation issues by Governor Umo Eno and emphasized that the Federal Government had provided sufficient financial backing for the projects.
Umahi indicated that unless Julius Berger resumes work and CCECC mobilizes to at least three sections of the road by the end of the week, their contracts would be at risk of termination.
Highlighting the critical state of the roads in the South-South region, Umahi particularly pointed out the challenges along the Akwa Ibom to Cross River route through Itu and Udoakpan Ekpo. He criticized RCC (Reynolds Construction Company), alleging delays and tricks in the execution of their section of the project despite substantial payments received.
“We have been on them to change their minds but by the end of next week, our 14 days notice of termination will elapse and we would terminate the project and give it to those who have mastery in the laying of concrete to come and use concrete in doing those roads,” Umahi warned.