Wike To Investigate Unauthorized Subletting Of ICC Furniture Contract

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Nyesom Wike, has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the unauthorized subletting of part of the International Conference Centre (ICC) furniture project contract.

Wike expressed the displeasure during an inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation of ICC and the N16 road in Gishiri, Abuja.

The contract, originally awarded to Julius Berger, reportedly had its furniture component reassigned to another firm by the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL) without the minister’s approval.

Dr Wike who described the development as unacceptable, immediately summoned the contractor and top FCTA officials for further investigation, to guard against compromising quality .

“The job was given to Julius Berger entirely. I cannot have different qualities. We cannot say that the floor up is furnished by Julius Berger and down is furnished by another company. It is not acceptable to me. “

“I have invited Julius Berger, I have invited the Executive Secretary of the FCDA and the MD of the Abuja Investments Company Limited to know who did that, and if anybody is found culpable, of course, I must have to apply the big stick.”

Dr Wike commended the quality of the overall work and expressed confidence that the contractors would meet their deadlines before the end of May.

“I believe, by the grace of God, they are meeting up for the second anniversary of Mr. President. Quality job done. I am sure those who live within this neighbourhood are happy with what they are seeing now.”

“I am not doubting the quality of work there. What I have said is that the quality of work generally is very fine. How they removed the furnishing of the conference hall from Julius Berger is what I do not know.”

“And so, that is why I summoned the Acting ES, FCDA, and the GMD of Abuja Investments Company Limited and Julius Berger, to come and tell us who did that, and also on whose approval, because I approve and I know the amount of money…Nobody will be a sacred cow”, Wike said.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Blessing Nyor