Elechi tasks NASS on role for states in FG road contracts

GOVERNOR Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State has tasked the House of Representatives Committee on Works to look into the need for state governments to be involved in award of contracts for federal roads, arguing that since states are critical stakeholders in the development and use of road infrastructure, they ought to take active part in award, supervision and maintenance of federal roads.Elechi, who spoke through his deputy, Mr. David Umahi, during a courtesy visit on him by members of the House Committee on Works led by Ogbuefi Ozomgbachi (PDP, Udi/Ezeagu federal constituency) noted with dismay that despite budgetary provisions, the deplorable conditions of roads remain the same.He regretted that most often contracts for road construction in the state are awarded at Abuja without considerations as to the capacity and capability of the contractors, stressing that the inputs of state governments are needed to ensure that the only competent firms are hired as well as involve the state works ministry to monitor the progress and quality of jobs done.The Ebonyi chief executive pleaded with the visitors to legislate for the reimbursement of Ebonyi State government for jobs done on the dualism of a portion of Abakaliki-Enugu Expressway, noting that Ebonyi was about the only state which major connecting interstate federal road was not a dual carriage.Earlier, while outlining the reason for the Committee's visit to Ebonyi, Ozomgbachi regretted that before now, the critical mandate of the legislature regarding appropriation and oversight had been treated with laissez faire attitude, declaring that henceforth, the House of Representatives is determined to ensure that Nigerians must receive justification for every kobo spent.
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