Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi has harped on transparency and said that all the projects executed by the ministry are open to scrutiny, reaffirming its transparency.
Speaking during a press conference Wednesday in Abuja, at the ministry’s headquarters, following recent criticisms and protests against the ministry, Umahi disclosed that anti-corruption agencies have already been invited to independently review the ministry’s operations.
He said the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has already concluded part of its investigation, while the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is expected to commence its review after an ongoing summit.
Umahi maintained that all projects are executed with due process, involving relevant officials and contractors, stressing that every expenditure can be accounted for.
Defending the ministry’s policy shift from asphalt to concrete roads, Umahi said the decision, though initially resisted, was aimed at ensuring durability.
While also highlighted the impact of poor infrastructure on citizens, urging journalists to prioritise accuracy and verification in their reports, even as he warned against the spread of unconfirmed information.
He said that, despite criticisms, the ministry remains focused on delivering projects that will improve the lives of Nigerians.Nigerian market insights
“We are not hiding anything because we feel for the people. Any file they want, any information, is available. That is how it should be. There is nothing we do in the Ministry of Works that we can not defend. We fought a battle to move from asphalt to concrete, but most of the roads we are building now will last up to 100 years; with little or no maintenance.
“When a road is cut into two, it amounts to people being in prison because they can not move from one point to another. As a journalist, do not escalate what you are not sure of. What you show is what you will defend,” he said.
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