WARRI SEAPORT & ESCRAVOS CHANNEL CONTRACT TO BE PROBED

Sequel to a unanimous adoption of a motion during plenary by Nicholas Ossai (PDP, Delta), the House of Representatives has resolved to investigate allegations of infractions in the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) award of contract for the dredging of Warri Seaport and Escravos Channel.

Moving the motion on the floor of the house, Ossai noted that, the water transport and maritime trade were strategic and of great importance to the Nigerian economy.

He said that the Federal Executive Council (FEC) had earlier approved N10 billion for the dredging of Warri Seaport and Escravos Channel.

The lawmaker emphasized that, if the projects are implemented, they would revive and re-energise economic activities in the Niger Delta region.

The House member however pointed out, that NPA took advantage of the FEC approval to award a contract worth N10 billion for the dredging of the Warri Port and Escravos Channel without any prior budgetary provision or appropriation; adding that the contract was awarded to a company whose reputation and professional competence has been smeared internationally.

Ossai said the company had suffered several criminal indictments and convictions in many countries.

The lawmaker expressed worry over attempts by some faceless persons to blackmail individuals and organisations raising alarm over the alleged illegality in the award of the contract.

The Speaker of the House, Yakubu Dogara, mandated the Committees on Ports, Harbours and Waterways and Public Procurement to investigate the alleged infractions and report back to the house within four weeks for further legislative action.