The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Enugu State has called on the state government to clarify reports of the resignation of Dr. Obi Ozor, the State Commissioner for Transport. According to circulating news, Ozor was interrogated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over allegations related to the procurement of aircraft for Enugu Air. The ADC stated that Ozor's reported resignation confirms their concerns about the secrecy surrounding Governor Mbah's administration.
The ADC expressed concerns about the lack of transparency in the awarding of contracts by the Mbah administration. The party alleged that contracts are awarded without competitive bidding, and there is no advertisement of contracts as required by law. They also claimed that contractors are not pre-qualified, and Memoranda of Understanding are signed indiscriminately without proper negotiation or disclosure.
Enugu ADC recalled that some smart school projects in the state collapsed shortly after completion, while others were not constructed or abandoned. The party noted that the Mbah government placed a significant financial burden on the people through excessive taxation and levying. They cited the case of Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, a contractor for the smart schools project, which allegedly eloped with billions of Naira paid by the state government without completing the job.
The EFCC reportedly recovered N1.2 billion from Sujimoto's CEO, Dr. Olasijibomi, and returned it to the Enugu State Government. However, the ADC questioned what happened to the remaining N4.5 billion. The party also pointed out that several Type 3 hospitals are abandoned, and some roads constructed by the Mbah administration have collapsed, contributing to the state's economic decline.
The ADC lamented the demolition of Ogige Main Mark, a commercial hub in Nsukka, which left about 7,000 traders out of business. Similar demolitions occurred at Holy Ghost and Abakpa. The party assured the people of Enugu State that if they vote for the ADC, there will be competitive bidding and strict compliance with the Public Procurement Act.
The ADC's statement was signed by Mr. Paul Anigbogu, for Enugu ADC Media Team. Neither Commissioner Ozor nor the state government has reacted to the claims as of the time of filing this report. The party's concerns highlight the need for greater transparency and accountability in the state's governance.
The situation has raised concerns about the governance and accountability of the Mbah administration. The ADC's call for clarification on Ozor's reported resignation and the circumstances surrounding it remains unanswered. The party's allegations against the administration have implications for the state's development and economy.
Key points
- The ADC has called for transparency and accountability in the Enugu State government.
- The party alleged that contracts are awarded without competitive bidding, and there is no advertisement of contracts as required by law.
- The EFCC reportedly recovered N1.2 billion from Sujimoto's CEO, but the remaining N4.5 billion is unaccounted for.