News
I’ve No Friends, Enemies, Or Firms In Promoting Concrete Roads – Umahi
From Lateef Taiwo
Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi has declared that he has no friends, no enemies and no companies as far as his assignment as the Minister of Works is concerned.
Umahi made this declaration during a press briefing he held at the headquarters of the Ministry in Abuja Monday.
They Minister said there were accusations that he was pursuing the agenda to change from asphalt roads to concrete so that he could give the work to his company.
He said that he will not place the interest of anybody above the interest of God, because the interest of God is the interest of the people and that is why he is poised to work in line with the renewed hope agenda of Mr. President.
Umahi also denied the allegation that he was sidelining the directors of the Ministry. He disclosed that he carries along the Directors and accepts their opinions when they are better than his because he is open to advice and accepts superior arguments
He said he was aware of the campaign of calumny by some individuals who are not ready to accept the fact that things must be done in the right perspective.
Umahi who noted that some detractors were set to frighten him so that he will not question some wrongdoings, said that no amount of blackmail can deter him.
He revealed that a lot of work is not going on in the South East, saying he will be going there on inspection and whoever has received money for a bad job or an undone job will be compelled to go back and do what he has been paid for.
He challenged those who are threatening to go to court to do so because the ministry has not done anything outside the limits of the law.
He said the ministry has always engaged its contractors in agreement with the general condition of contracts which is the standard that all engineers are expected to abide by.
He read out clause 51 of the the agreement which empowers the ministry to direct a contractor to change from asphalt to concrete layout.
The Minister said his preference for concrete roads is due to the fact that it has at least 50 years shelf life, will reduce the pressure on naira, boost the economy of the country and create employment since there are indigenous companies producing cement unlike bitumen that is being imported for asphalt.
Umahi stressed that any contractor who insists on asphalt road must sign an agreement that it will last for at least thirty, 30, years which is the shelf life as Nigerians must get value for their taxes. He abhorred the situation where people are subjected to unnecessary hardship and security risk due to bad roads.
Umahi said the idea of a supersonic speed highway was borne before his appointment as Minister but he embraced it due to its benefits.
He disclosed that an advanced engineering company was invited to the ministry for demonstration which proved its viability.
He said, “It is a fresh technology and it is taking off with the proposed 4th Mainland Bridge and by the famous Shagamu – Ore road. It will link to the seaport that is being done, the fertiliser company and the refinery. He added that the 4th Mainland Bridge construction is by the Lagos State Government.
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
*
Investigations by Nigerian Concord Newspaper reveal that the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Mr. Pius Akutah, has allegedly misappropriated public funds for a lavish lifestyle.
According to our findings, within months of assuming office, Akutah allegedly purchased a bulletproof SUV valued at approximately N850 million. In addition, he is reported to have acquired over twenty exotic SUVs for use as a convoy.
Akutah is also said to have acquired multiple high-value properties, including three in Abuja’s Maitama and Asokoro districts worth over N2 billion, and two in Lagos’ Banana Island valued at N1.8 billion. These acquisitions appear far beyond the scope of his official salary and allowances.
Further investigation suggests that Akutah may be using public funds to support political ambitions, including allegedly grooming militants across 23 local government areas in Benue State for a potential 2027 gubernatorial bid.
Staff of the Shippers Council reportedly claim that Akutah frequently accesses the council’s treasury without proper authorization. Some insiders have indicated that a petition will soon be filed with the EFCC, ICPC, and the Presidency to report his alleged misconduct.
*
I am writing to felicitate with Your Excellency, Atku Abubakar, GCON, former Vice-President of Nigeria (Zege Mule u Tiv & Wazirin Adamawa)
on the occasion of your 79th birthday anniversary.
I join your teeming admirers globally in celebrating you on this special day, an adorable Statesman and my Boss.
I recall with nostalgia, how countless generations have benefited from your generosity, wealth of experience and benevolence including being my key benefactor even as a young lawyer for my professional success.
Your Excellency, may your special day be filled with grandeur befitting your illustrious career.
I wish you continued success, prosperity, and an unending stream of accolades.
It takes a remarkable kind of fortitude to remain active in public life well into one’s golden years. Your dedication and patriotism remain truly exceptional.
May you enjoy a day of reflection on your many years of fruitful service to humanity. It is my prayer that God Almighty grants you many more healthy, fruitful, and fulfilling years ahead, and continues to endow you with wisdom, strength, and the grace to keep contributing to our nation-building.
Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.
Michael Kaase Aondoakaa SAN.
Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice
TAU reaffirms commitment to globally competitive learning
photo
JUST IN: Even Tinubu moves with too many police escorts – Senator Ndume
-
Uncategorized5 years agoFG, states urged to harness flooding for ranching, others with technology – Agbaje
-
Headlines10 years agoBreaking: EFCC seals Borno House of Assembly, as Hon members take to their heels
-
News11 years agoNigeria Security Operatives Stage Manhunt For Homosexual Perpetrator
-
News9 years agoHow 21-year-old Girl fled community over accusation of lesbianism
-
News10 years agoYobe Gov Moves Against Deputy
-
Opinion7 years ago7 signs she has friend zoned you
-
Technology4 years ago
Online job placement company headhunts women
-
Headlines10 years agoBorno Dep Gov Abducts Another Church Leader