The Ebonyi government has rejected claims that it was using contracts to empower stakeholders considered influential.
Information and orientation commissioner Ikeuwa Omebe told newsmen on Friday in Abakaliki that contract awards were based on merit.
“Contract bidding and award pass through due processes at the state Bureau for Public Procurement.
“Only contractors, who meet the required criteria, are awarded contracts as the government respects due process.
“The government gives attention to stakeholders, but definitely not through contracts,” he said.
He explained that the government does not condone lackadaisical approach to projects by contractors executing, adding that such attitude would always attract stringent action.
“The State Executive Council, during its last meeting, observed that most of the contractors handling road projects had either abandoned them after receiving payments, or did very poor jobs.
“After extensive deliberation, the council approved the immediate termination of all two-kilometre roads not yet completed,” he said.
He recalled that the council, at its Feb. 3, 2026 meeting, had noticed the slow pace of works at the road sites and consequently directed supervising committees to move to the sites.
“The committees were also directed to make recommendations for the termination of jobs that were either not seriously on-going or poorly executed.
“The committees were further mandated to review all payment papers and certify them before payments are made,” he said.
Omebe reiterated the government’s determination to complete strategic projects initiated by the previous administrations, which were of benefit to the people.
The commissioner announced the receipt of a request for engagement of a sub-contractor for air-conditioning services at Ebonyi State Trade Centre Project.
“Council approved the sum of N1.3 billion and directed immediate commencement of the air conditioning services at the Centre,” he said.
