By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. Nweze David Umahi, has issued a strong rebuttal to recent statements made by the Chairman of the House Committee on FERMA, Hon. Engr. Aderemi Abasi Oseni, regarding the state of federal roads in Nigeria.
The Minister described the remarks as misguided, self-serving, and a vicious attempt at propaganda, reflecting the interests of nonconforming contractors.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser and made available to the press, Umahi expressed his dismay over the characterization of his leadership in addressing the nation’s road infrastructure issues.
He emphasized that the Chairman’s comments were baseless, as neither he nor his Permanent Secretary had attended any meeting in which the allegations were purportedly made.
“This unprovoked attack is an inconceivable embarrassment to my person and the Federal Ministry of Works,” the Minister stated.
Umahi pointed out that the issues surrounding the state of Nigeria’s roads, which total over 2,604 inherited from previous administrations, should not be simplified or blamed solely on his leadership.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by these inherited projects and underscored the efforts of the Renewed Hope administration in implementing various interventions to enhance public transport across the nation.
In his statement, the Minister refrained from engaging directly with the House Committee Chairman, citing respect for the National Assembly and its leadership. He remarked, “For the respect of Mr. Speaker, and of course the Senate President, I will refrain myself from joining issues with him,” highlighting the importance of maintaining decorum within legislative discussions.
Minister Umahi further criticized the Chairman’s assertions, stating they were an oversimplification of complex infrastructural challenges. He clarified that the current state of roads cannot be resolved instantaneously, especially when many projects have spanned decades without completion. “If you expect projects that have lasted 20 years to be done in one year, you must understand the processes involved,” he said.
He also condemned the Chairman’s actions as a violation of parliamentary procedure, stating it undermines the legislative powers of the Senate and House Committees on Works, which have been effectively overseeing the Ministry’s operations.
The Minister expressed gratitude to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unprecedented support in addressing the funding gaps for inherited projects. Umahi revealed that over 90% of the available funds have been utilized to keep ongoing projects alive, stressing the importance of sustained investment in infrastructure for the benefit of the Nigerian populace.
“As we manage over 2,600 ongoing projects, it is essential to maintain a commitment to progress, regardless of the challenges,” Umahi concluded, emphasizing the Ministry’s dedication to improving Nigeria’s road network.