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From Idu Jude, Abuja
As Nigerians await the outcome of the National Assembly probe of the failed Closed-circuit Television contract (CCTV) in the Federal Capital Territory FCT, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and other Principal officers have been tasked to rise to the occasion as this is another litmus test for the 10th Assembly.
The APC administration was also advised to ensure that appropriate sanctions are applied, irrespective of whose ox is gored, as the security of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of every responsible government.
Speaking exclusively with the Sun newspaper, former National Treasurer of the Labour Party, Mrs Oluchi Opara, highlighted that the unpatriotic attitude of those involved in the failed contract has contributed to the increase in kidnapping and other insecurity problems being experienced in the FCT and Nigeria in general.
While commending the act of national sabotage, she said, “I can say that this is a reckless attitude and shameless irresponsibility of those involved in the failed Abuja CCTV project, a contract worth over $460 million, awarded with the promise of securing our nation’s capital, yet abandoned without remorse, transparency, or accountability.
“It is utterly heartbreaking that such a monumental security investment was allegedly squandered, leaving Abuja and its residents vulnerable to the rising tide of terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and violent crimes. Had this project been executed diligently and judiciously, Nigeria, especially the FCT, would not be experiencing the devastating level of insecurity it does today.
On the established ad hoc committee to investigate the scandal, she further remarked, “I commend this move, but I also urge the committee members to carry out their assignment with integrity, courage, and unwavering patriotism. Nigerians are watching. We expect fairness, transparency, and truth, not another round of empty investigations that lead nowhere.
Meanwhile, she recommends that for the sake of national security and public trust, the committee must as a matter of urgency,
Conduct a forensic audit of the entire $460 million project.
Expose all individuals, agencies, and contractors involved in this shameful fraud.
Make public the complete details of the loan, payments, installations, and project status.
Recover stolen or mismanaged funds where necessary.
“Let it be known that no serious investor will wish to bring their resources into a country where insecurity has become the order of the day and where government projects meant to secure lives are recklessly abandoned.
“As insecurity ravages our nation, the need to install a modern, functional CCTV network across Abuja has become both urgent and non-negotiable. If the original contractors failed, they must refund the entire $460 million so that the needful can be done immediately with reputable, competent hands.
“The onus now lies squarely on the committee members to dig deep, unravel every layer of corruption, and expose every individual no matter how highly placed, who played a role in this national embarrassment. This is not the time for political protection or selective justice”, she warned
