By Milcah Tanimu
The House of Representatives Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has launched an investigation into the alleged abandonment of the Gidanwaya-Guaran Dutse-Waman Rafi-Saminaka-Kano road project in Kaduna state, valued at N1.46 billion.
During a hearing on Tuesday in Abuja, the committee expressed concern about the project, reportedly funded by a loan taken by the Federal Government and assigned to Messrs Jam Jam Dynamic Platform Limited. Committee Chair, Rep. Bamidele Salam (PDP-Osun), highlighted that the project, awarded on October 5, 2022, was scheduled for completion within 12 months but has yet to commence.
The Federal Ministry of Works’ Permanent Secretary, Dr. Yakubu Adam, explained that the N1.46 billion covers only a portion of the 133km road, which is intended to be developed in phases due to limited funds. However, he expressed surprise that work had not started, as the payment had been processed.
Following a delay in obtaining requested documents, PAC has directed Dr. Adam to submit all relevant materials by Friday, November 1, and to reappear on Monday, November 4. The committee seeks clarity on the project’s status to verify if any progress has been made and ensure transparency in its funding.