Toba Owojaiye Reporting
Former FCT Minister, Mallam Muhammed M. Bello, has found himself at the center of a storm involving alleged variations frauds and questionable contracts during his tenure.
In response to these concerning allegations, Honorable Minister of FCT, Hon. Wike, has taken decisive action by formally writing to both the EFCC and ICPC, urging them to summon Mallam Bello for an explanation.
Some of the key issues that require clarification from Mallam Bello include the following:
The awarding of a 1 km road contract from Gaduwa Estate junction to NCDC Office, initially costing 4 billion Naira and paid in full.
Contract awards that started at 10 billion Naira but were later inexplicably increased to 119 billion Naira.
Another contract that began at 50 billion Naira but suspiciously escalated to 200 billion Naira.
Yet another contract initially valued at 6 billion Naira, which mysteriously ballooned to 70 billion Naira.
The approval of emergency maintenance for Usman Dam, costing 9 billion Naira, without proper Bill of Quantities (BOQ) and amid numerous procurement infractions.
Leaving a staggering debt of over 1.2 trillion Naira in the FCT without tangible results.
Allowing green areas designated for parks and recreation to be converted into residential zones, along with the unauthorized transformation of residential houses in areas like Wuse 2, Maitama, Gana Street, and Garki into commercial properties, contravening the Abuja master plan.
These allegations raise serious concerns, and it is imperative that Mallam Muhammed M. Bello provides transparent and accountable explanations to the relevant authorities.