The recent APC South South Zonal Stakeholders Meeting held in Calabar on Sunday 16th June 2024 saw the Minister of Works, Dr. Dave Umahi, make veiled criticisms against the Cross River South Consultative Forum (CRSCF). As members of CRSCF, we find it imperative to address these accusations and set the record straight.
Goodwill and Historical Context
Firstly, it is essential to acknowledge the goodwill and contributions of the CRSCF towards infrastructural development in Cross River State. Our intentions have always been aligned with the betterment of our state, fostering development, and ensuring that public resources are used effectively and efficiently.
The Case of SERMATECH Nigeria Limited
The history of SERMATECH in Cross River State is well-documented and fraught with instances of subpar performance. In 2017, the Buhari-led APC Federal Government awarded the contract for the reconstruction and dualization of the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway. This 97-kilometer Federal Highway, crucial for linking Cross River and Akwa Ibom States to other parts of Nigeria, had its most technically challenging section—28 kilometers with 4 bridges—awarded to SERMATECH Nigeria Limited.
Stakeholders, including the Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM) and the Cross River South Progressives Forum (CRISPROF), raised red flags about SERMATECH’s capabilities. Their concerns were not unfounded. The only intra-city dualized road constructed by SERMATECH in Cross River State, the Goodluck Jonathan By-Pass, failed within six months despite low traffic usage. Further federal intervention projects managed by SERMATECH, such as the reconstruction of a culvert along Murtala Mohammed Highway and another in Iwuru, Biase Local Government Area, also failed shortly after completion. These failures are evident to all who traverse these roads, raising legitimate concerns about the company’s competence.
A Call for Accountability, Not Vilification
Dr. Umahi’s criticism of CRSCF overlooks the critical role we play in safeguarding the interests of Cross Riverians. Our objections to awarding contracts to SERMATECH were based on factual evidence of their inability to deliver quality infrastructure. It is not a matter of vilification but a call for accountability. Ensuring that reputable companies handle significant projects is paramount for the state’s progress.
Moreover, it seems Dr. Umahi has forgotten that CRSCF visited him in December 2023 in the aftermath of our petition against SERMATECH. In that meeting, the Honourable Minister proposed to set up a tripartite committee comprising officials of his ministry, members of CRSCF, and SERMATECH to monitor the company’s performance and report to him. It’s surprising that rather than fulfill his promise, the Minister is attacking the very forum he praised for showing patriotism in contributing to the success of Federal Government projects in Cross River.
Questioning Dr. Umahi’s Allegiances
Dr. Umahi’s entrenched interest and apparent tribal leanings towards the leadership of SERMATECH raise questions about his motives. If SERMATECH were truly an excellent construction company, why did Dr. Umahi not engage them in construction projects during his tenure as Governor of Ebonyi State? This inconsistency suggests a deeper, more personal agenda that does not align with the best interests of Cross River State.
The Dire Consequences of Poor Contracting
When SERMATECH took on the construction of the Ikom-Alesi-Ugep-Calabar Highway, the adverse effects were felt deeply by the people of Cross River. The failure of this project rendered parts of Ikom and Ogoja Local Government Areas inaccessible for months, disrupting lives and livelihoods. This is a stark reminder of the consequences of awarding contracts to companies that lack the requisite capability and commitment.
Conclusion
CRSCF’s stance is not one of baseless opposition but one grounded in a desire for transparency, quality, and the 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 interests are aligned with those of the state, and our actions are driven by a commitment to its development and prosperity. The criticism levied against us is not only unwarranted but also detracts from the real issue at hand: ensuring that only capable and reputable companies handle the critical infrastructure projects that our state desperately needs.
