Wike Revokes Apo- Karshi Road Contract After 14 Years

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Thursday announced the termination of the 13.25-kilometre Apo–Karshi road contract previously awarded to Messrs Kakatar CE Limited.

Wike disclosed this while speaking to journalists after inspecting ongoing works on the Karu, Gishiri, and Apo–Wasa (Outer Southern Expressway) road projects.

According to him, the contract has now been re-awarded to SCC Construction Company under an emergency arrangement and will be officially flagged off soon.

The Minister expressed frustration over the prolonged delays and politicization of the project, which commenced in 2011 at an initial value of N6.4 billion. He noted that the project was conceived as an alternative route to ease the persistent traffic congestion along the Karshi–Jikwoyi–Nyanya corridor.

Wike recalled that during his visit to the site in July 2024, he had pledged that the road would be completed within six months based on assurances from the contractor. However, he lamented that the company failed to deliver on its promise.

Speaking on the Karu, Gishiri, and Apo–Wasa projects, Wike said:
“I have always said that what makes the government relaxed is when the people are happy. The essence of governance is to ensure the well-being of the people and improve their lives.

“When we first went to Karu to flag off the project, it was just one road. I promised then that all the connecting roads would be included. I am very happy with the progress. The contractor is doing very well, and this is one of the projects we will line up for the President’s third anniversary. I am quite impressed.

“Let me be truthful: we have terminated the Apo–Karshi road contract and re-awarded it to SCC. If you visit the site now, you will see that work has already commenced. This road is of great interest to many people because it will help decongest several areas.

We can not continue to play politics with the welfare of the people. That contract has been terminated.”

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji