…states shabby works for reasons for revocation from former handler despite collect N380m from last administration
…outlined payment processes and give 6 months deadline
Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde has flagged-off the construction of the General Gas-Akobo bridge. The bridge is expected to connect Akobo to Idi-Ape to Odogbo barracks.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the Governor said that the contract was originally awarded by the previous administration in 2017 but was rewarded due to the shabby work the contractor did.
According to Makinde, when the contract was awarded in 2017, N1.464bn was allocated to the construction of the bridge. He however said that the contract was reawarded for N1.058bn only
He said,”The original contract was awarded in 2017 for the road from Idi-Ape-Akobo Ojurin-Odogbo Barracks Junction but the contractor was handling the project with hands of levity.
“Let’s forget about the road for a brief moment. In the amount stipulated for the road project, the amount allocated to the bridge was N1.464bn. N368m was paid to the contractor before we stopped the project. The only thing the contractor had to show for the N368m are the steel and concrete we can see over there.
“Now, that N1.64bn awarded for the project was the price as at 2017. Despite the inflation, in 2021, we have reawarded the contract for 1.058bn only.”
Makinde added that even though the contract has been re-awarded, the government will not pay a dime until 20% completion of the project.
He further pledged that the project will be commissioned in six months.
His words, “On my honour, I’m telling you that despite the reduced amount, the bridge will be completed in 6 months.”
He subsequently called on the residents of the state to act as supervisors for the project.
He said, we are all to be supervisors of this project. If you are passing through the area and you see anything you feel needs to be corrected, please tell us. We will talk to the contractor and ensure that he is doing what the people want.”