The Nigerian Senate has summoned the Minister of Works, David Umahi, alongside construction companies Julius Berger and CCECC, to appear before its Works Committee within a week.
The directive was issued during an investigative hearing on Wednesday concerning the long-delayed Odukpani-Calabar highway project.
The hearing, attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, sought to address the lack of progress on the critical road, which has been under construction for nearly five decades since its contract was first signed by a military administration in 1975.
Expected at the hearing were the Minister of Works, the Director of Federal Highways, and the three contractors handling the project—Julius Berger, CCECC, and Zeka Global Company. However, the minister and representatives from Julius Berger and CCECC failed to attend, prompting the committee to issue a summons.
Committee Chairman Senator Barinada Mpigi warned that if the invited parties do not comply with the summons, a warrant of arrest may be issued in line with Senate rules. He emphasised that the focus is not on individuals but on ensuring progress across all road projects in the country.
Senate President Akpabio expressed frustration over the dire condition of the Odukpani-Calabar highway, citing the loss of lives and the severe inconvenience faced by commuters due to prolonged delays.
The road serves as a vital link between the South-South and South-East regions, connecting Calabar to Uyo, Aba, Port Harcourt, and other areas.
Akpabio urged the committee to thoroughly investigate claims made by the contractors and push for the project’s swift completion.
“Let us do it for the sake of Nigeria, let us do it for the sake of humanity,” he said.
The Senate has called for a detailed oversight of the project to ensure accountability and progress on the highway, which has been a source of frustration and tragedy for decades.
