The Senate has also directed the ad hoc committee to summon key stakeholders involved in the project, including the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, the Managing Director of RCC Construction Company, and the permanent secretaries of the Ministry of Works and Housing, Niger Delta Affairs, Petroleum Resources, and Finance. Their presence is required to provide detailed information on the reasons behind the consistent delays and abandonment of this crucial infrastructure initiative.
During the lead debate, Senator Mpigi Barinada, representing the People's Democratic Party (PDP) from Rivers State, highlighted the dire state of the 7 km stretch of the Federal Government Trunk A road. This segment serves as a vital economic artery in the Niger Delta region, connecting the Eleme-Ogoni corridor and facilitating transportation between the South-South, South-East, and Western regions of the country. Regrettably, the road has remained stagnant despite substantial financial investments.
Senator Mpigi expressed concern over the abandonment of such a critical national project, emphasising that it would cause severe hardship, neglect, and increased suffering for the people. He further urged the Federal Government to consider the significant revenue losses resulting from the project's neglect, as this would directly impact the country's financial resources.
The establishment of the ad hoc committee reflects the Senate's commitment to addressing the prolonged failure of the East-West road. By summoning key stakeholders and conducting a thorough investigation, the Senate aims to shed light on the reasons behind the project's delays and abandonment. This initiative is crucial not only to alleviate the suffering of the affected communities but also to safeguard the nation's financial interests.
As the committee commences its work, it is expected to unearth critical information that will guide future decision-making and ensure the timely completion of the East-West road. The Senate's intervention marks a significant step towards holding accountable those responsible for the project's failure and providing hope for the affected communities eagerly awaiting the road's completion.
The investigation into the East-West road failure underscores the Senate's commitment to promoting effective governance, accountability, and sustainable development in Nigeria. It sends a clear message that national projects must be treated with the utmost seriousness, and any neglect or delays will not go unaddressed. The Senate's actions serve as a reminder to the government and stakeholders that the people's welfare and the nation's progress should always take precedence.