By Sam Tyav, Makurdi
Director General (DG), Benue State Public Procurement Commission (BSPPC), Engr. (Dr.) Akwonya Comfort Adadu, has dispelled the allegation bordering on inflation of contract sum for the Wurukum-Airforce Base Road dualization project in the North-Central Nigeria state.
Addressing the legislators during plenary at the State House of Assembly, Dr. Adadu said that the contract was approved for approximately N28 billion, contrary to media reports suggesting a N68 billion valuation.
Her appearance and explanation before the Assembly became necessary following a summons to address public concerns over some ongoing state projects.
Media aide to the DG, George Nder, informed newsmen that the approved contract underwent proper procurement procedures in line with the State’s Public Procurement Law, showing transparency and fairness.
But a lawmaker, Hon. Bem Doo Ipusu, during the session, questioned the DG about a possible extension of the project from the Airforce Base to Tyomu, reportedly at the sum of N39 billion.
Responding,Dr. Adadu, however, disclosed that her office was unaware of such an extension as no such contract had been submitted to the Commission for evaluation or issuance of a Letter of No Objection, insisting that only the Wurukum-Airforce Base contract had passed through due process.
The DG added that any additional works must follow the same legal and procedural path before gaining approval.
Dr. Adadu, who appreciated the State Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration, also praised his commitment to transparency and fiscal discipline, adding that the Commission remained dedicated to ensuring public funds were spent responsibly and for the benefit of the people.
She lauded the State Assembly for being firm in its oversight role of monitoring public expenditure and enforcing accountability in government projects.
In a related development, the State Assembly has summoned the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Health Care Board to appear before it on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
The summons followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Hon. Anthony Agom, who expressed concern over the lack of information regarding the number of renovated primary healthcare centers (PHCs), their selection criteria, total funding received, execution timeline, and project status.
The lawmaker lamented that the lack of transparency may erode public trust and hinder the Assembly’s oversight function, ultimately depriving citizens of vital health infrastructure.
The Executive Secretary is expected to provide details on the World Bank-supported renovation of PHCs across the state.
