***“No sacred cow, I’ll apply the big stick if foul play is confirmed,” says FCT Minister
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has summoned top officials of the FCT Administration and representatives of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc following reports that a portion of the International Conference Centre (ICC) rehabilitation contract was sublet without his approval.
Wike, who inspected the ICC project and the N16 road in Gishiri over the weekend, expressed displeasure upon learning that the Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL) had allegedly handed over the furnishing of the ICC conference hall to a separate contractor.
“I was surprised to hear there’s a different contractor handling the furniture. That’s unacceptable. Julius Berger was awarded the entire job—we cannot have mixed quality standards within the same facility,” Wike stated.
He confirmed summoning the Acting Executive Secretary of the FCDA, the Managing Director of AICL, and Julius Berger, demanding explanations on who authorized the deviation from the original contract.
“I approved the project and know the cost involved. If AICL took over part of the work, who authorized it and who’s paying? If any shady deal occurred, I will not hesitate to apply the big stick. No one is above scrutiny,” he warned.
While expressing concern over the contract issue, Wike praised the quality and pace of work on both sites, stating that contractors are working around the clock to meet deadlines ahead of President Tinubu’s second anniversary.
“From the reports I’ve received, the contractors are working day and night. I’m confident the projects will be ready as scheduled. Residents in these areas can already see the transformation,” he added.
Wike reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and timely delivery of public infrastructure across the FCT.
