A group, Arewa Coalition for Justice (ACJ) has appeal to President Bola Tinubu led federal government to reverse the recent cancellation of the Katsina-Kankara-Dutsinma-Maraba Kankara road project, which is being regarded as a crucial infrastructure initiative in Katsina State.
The group during a press conference on Tuesday, read by Ibrahim Muhammad
expressed concern over the cancellation, emphasizing on President Tinubu’s earlier promise to prioritize infrastructure to boost the economy and create jobs.
The Katsina-Kankara-Dutsinma-Maraba Kankara road project, awarded in April 2024, was intended to improve life in seven local government areas, enhance regional economic activity, and address security challenges.
The ACJ criticized the decision, alleging that Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and Presidential Aide Ibrahim Masari influenced the cancellation due to political motives, as the project was linked to an opposition PDP member.
The coalition stressed that political sentiments should not guide the provision of essential projects and development.
The cancellation by the Minister of Works David Umahi is seen as disregarding northern interests and potentially creating a rift between President Tinubu and the region.
The ACJ suggested that Umahi might aim to re-award the project to a proxy company, thereby harming the administration’s reputation.
The contract was awarded to VIPAN Global Resources Limited, an indigenous contractor that had already mobilized without waiting for mobilization fees.
The ACJ emphasized that the project followed due process, with official sanctioning on April 5, 2024, and called the cancellation unjust.
ACJ urged President Tinubu to direct the Ministry of Works to reverse the decision, warning that canceling the project could deter future investors and pose legal challenges.
They also called on National Assembly members from the northwest to advocate for the project’s continuation and urged an investigation into all road projects awarded by Minister Umahi.
The coalition asked the people of Katsina to remain patient and trust in President Tinubu’s leadership.