Minister Umahi’s Criticisms Spark Controversy
The recent APC South South Zonal Stakeholders Meeting in Calabar on Sunday, June 16, 2024, witnessed the Minister of Works, Dr. Dave Umahi, making veiled criticisms against the Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF). In response, members of the CRSCF have found it necessary to address these accusations and clarify their stance.
A Legacy of Goodwill
The CRSCF has consistently contributed to the infrastructural development of Cross River State. Our efforts have always been geared towards the state’s progress, ensuring public resources are utilized effectively and efficiently.
SERMATECH Nigeria Limited’s Controversial Track Record
SERMATECH Nigeria Limited’s history in Cross River State is marred by substandard performance. The 2017 contract for the reconstruction and dualization of the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway is a prime example. This crucial 97-kilometer highway had its most challenging section—28 kilometers with four bridges—awarded to SERMATECH.
Stakeholders like the Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM) and the Cross River South Progressives Forum (CRISPROF) raised concerns about SERMATECH’s capabilities, which proved to be well-founded. The Goodluck Jonathan By-Pass, an intra-city road constructed by SERMATECH, failed within six months despite low traffic. Other federal projects, including culvert reconstructions along Murtala Mohammed Highway and in Iwuru, Biase Local Government Area, also failed shortly after completion.
Demanding Accountability
Dr. Umahi’s criticism of the CRSCF disregards the forum’s essential role in protecting the interests of Cross Riverians. Our objections to awarding contracts to SERMATECH stem from documented evidence of their inability to deliver quality infrastructure. This is a call for accountability, not vilification.
Unfulfilled Promises
In December 2023, following our petition against SERMATECH, Dr. Umahi proposed forming a tripartite committee to monitor the company’s performance. It is surprising that instead of fulfilling this promise, the Minister now criticizes the forum he once praised for its patriotism and contributions to Federal Government projects in Cross River.
Questioning Ministerial Motivations
Dr. Umahi’s apparent favoritism towards SERMATECH raises questions about his motives. During his tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State, he did not engage SERMATECH for any construction projects, which suggests a personal agenda that conflicts with the best interests of Cross River State.
Consequences of Poor Contracting
The construction of the Ikom-Alesi-Ugep-Calabar Highway by SERMATECH resulted in severe disruptions, rendering parts of Ikom and Ogoja Local Government Areas inaccessible for months. This underscores the dire consequences of awarding contracts to incapable companies.
CRSCF’s Commitment to Transparency
The CRSCF’s opposition is rooted in a desire for transparency, quality, and efficient use of public resources. We urge Dr. Umahi and other stakeholders to recognize our role in advocating for the people of Cross River State. Our actions are driven by a commitment to the state’s development and prosperity.
Conclusion
The CRSCF calls for an objective assessment of SERMATECH’s performance and a reconsideration of their engagement in critical infrastructure projects. The criticism against us is unwarranted and detracts from the crucial issue: ensuring that only capable and reputable companies handle the essential infrastructure projects that our state needs.
