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From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja
Federal Government has urged Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) to compensate indigenes of Ikot-Ekpene–Ikot Abasi Community who yielded their land for the 330kV Double Circuit Transmission Line Project (Lot 18T).
Speaking during an inspection of the project site, chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Public Assets, Honourable Ademorin Kuye, also disclosed government’s plan to fund the long-abandoned project and monitor it till completion.
Kuye said the visit was part of the committee’s ongoing investigation into abandoned Federal Government assets and projects to ensure that public investments are not wasted.
He explained that the transmission line was identified as one of several critical infrastructure projects that could be revived to support economic growth and improve electricity supply.
“In the course of our investigation into government assets and projects, we observed that some have been abandoned over the years despite the huge investments committed to them. We felt those investments should not go to waste. So, we decided to identify projects that can be resuscitated and understand what led to their abandonment,” he said.
According to him, both the NDPHC and the contractor have expressed readiness to complete the project once outstanding challenges are addressed.
“We realised that there is an intention on the part of NDPHC to continue with the project. We also found that the contractor is willing to return to site and complete the work. This is a very important project not only for the host communities but also for the economy of the state and the country.” he said
Kuye said completing the project would improve electricity infrastructure, boost businesses, support farmers and artisans, enhance security and stimulate socio-economic development across Akwa Ibom State and neighbouring areas.
He also commended members of the host communities for safeguarding project materials despite the prolonged suspension of work.
“We were told that the materials needed to complete the project are already on ground, and we wanted to verify that ourselves. Honestly, I must commend the people of the community for the way they have secured these assets. The wires, towers and other materials have been protected, which shows a high level of co-operation and commitment to seeing the project completed.” the chairman stated
The lawmaker urged the NDPHC to expedite the payment of outstanding compensation to affected landowners to pave the way for the contractor’s return to site.
“We want to implore NDPHC that everything necessary should be done, particularly the payment of the outstanding compensation. Some payments have already been made, but the balance should be settled so that the community can allow the contractor to return to site and complete the project.”he said.
Addressing community members, Kuye assured them that the National Assembly would collaborate with the Federal Government, the Akwa Ibom State Government and local authorities to remove all obstacles delaying the project.
“We are doing everything humanly possible to ensure that this project is completed. We will synergise with the Federal Government, the state government and the local government to ensure this project is delivered for the benefit of the community.”he explained.
Other members of the committee on the visit were Honourables Tunji Akinosi, Jaafaru Yakubu and Patrick Umoh.
Earlier, the Village Head of Adiasim Ikot in Essien Udim Local Government Area, Chief Joseph Gall Udo, lamented that the contractor abandoned the project more than six years ago.
He appealed to the Federal Government and the NDPHC to settle outstanding compensation claims and address other issues preventing the completion of the project.
“We want the contractor to return to site because the project will benefit our people. We have made sure that the equipment and other materials left behind by the contractor are protected.”he stated
