Minister Denies Ownership Of Agbokim Road Contract, Blames Delays On Funding Challenges

ETUNG, CROSS RIVER – The Minister of State for Industry, , has denied allegations linking him to the contract for the reconstruction of the Agbokim Waterfall Road in Cross River State, describing the claims as false, malicious and defamatory.

Enoh made the clarification in a statement posted on his social media handle on Tuesday and sighted by Truth Live News while reacting to a viral video circulated by a social media influencer identified as MC Okrika.

The minister said the video contained “deliberate falsehoods, distortions and malicious allegations” concerning the deplorable condition of the road.

He, however, acknowledged the hardship being faced by residents and commuters using the road, insisting that he personally shares in the suffering of the people.

“Let me state from the outset that this response must not be misconstrued as an attempt to excuse, defend, or trivialize the unacceptable condition of the road and the daily hardship endured by our people and neighboring communities,” Enoh stated.

According to him, claims that he avoided the road during a recent visit by allegedly taking an alternative route were “completely false, mischievous and clearly part of a coordinated smear campaign.”

The minister further denied owning the road contract or benefiting from it through any proxy.

“Let me categorically and unequivocally state that neither I nor any proxy linked to me has ever been awarded the Agbokim Waterfall Road contract,” he said.

Enoh explained that the road had remained under an active contract awarded by the since around 2009.

He disclosed that the initial contract was awarded to JAMEON Nigeria Ltd, a development he said prompted protests from himself and former Senate Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba, SAN, over concerns about the company’s credibility and capacity.

According to the minister, the contractor allegedly performed poorly, resulting in years of delay and deterioration of the road project.

He said sustained pressure on the NDDC, the supervising ministry and the Presidency eventually led to the revocation of the contract in the last quarter of 2024.

The minister added that the road was subsequently divided into four lots and re-awarded to FaithPlant and Rhema for emergency construction works, with formal handover taking place in January 2025.

Speaking on the current pace of work, Enoh attributed the slow progress on the project largely to funding challenges.

“It is a known fact that the current contractors moved with speed immediately they took over the road.

However, the slow pace currently being witnessed on the project is due to funding challenges,” he stated.

Despite the setbacks, the minister said he had continued engaging the leadership of the NDDC and other relevant authorities to ensure completion of the project.

He maintained that his commitment to the welfare of his people remained “unwavering” and accused critics of attempting to weaponize the suffering of residents for political attacks and social media relevance.

Enoh also expressed confidence that the administration of would ensure the road project receives the attention needed for completion.

“The undeniable truth remains that the Agbokim Waterfall Road requires urgent and lasting intervention,” the minister added.

The Agbokim Waterfall Road has for years remained a source of concern for residents and commuters due to its deteriorating condition despite repeated interventions and contract awards.