Governor Umahi delivered this cautionary statement during a meeting held at the Federal Ministry of Works' Conference Hall in Abuja, wherein he engaged with contractors responsible for various road projects nationwide. The meeting took place on Wednesday.
Umahi stated that the primary objective of this meeting is to address the obstacles that lie ahead. However, he also indicated that this gathering is likely to be one of the final meetings of its kind in this particular context.
This is due to my conviction that I have convened a sufficient number of meetings, and I desire for the minutes to be recorded, reviewed by me, and afterwards sent to all contractors.
He further stated that the meeting was consistent with the contractual agreement between the Federal Ministry of Works and the contractors responsible for the road construction.
Umahi made an assertion that certain contractors have engaged in collaborative meetings, wherein they have formed alliances, with certain individuals subsequently divulging the contents of these meetings to him.
He informed the contractors that the principles and new policies of the Federal Ministry of Works are non-negotiable, rendering any discussion with them unproductive.
In order for me to yield, it would be necessary for you to engage in supplication to a divine entity and petition President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for my removal from this particular role.
However, in the event that I continue to hold the position of Minister, it is imperative that I prioritize the execution of both divine and presidential mandates, in addition to fulfilling the desires of the general populace.
Governor Umahi expressed his commitment to a specific goal, which entails prioritizing the allocation of funds for the construction or repair of a limited ten-kilometer stretch of road. By doing so, he aims to instill renewed optimism among Nigerians over the state of our road infrastructure.
The speaker additionally asserted that in the event the terms presented to the contractors are unsatisfactory, they had the option to withdraw, as the contract is predicated upon mutual consent, hence absolving the speaker of any need to provide an exorbitant sum.
The speaker emphasized that the ability to pay and the recipient's capacity to effectively utilize the funds provided are crucial factors, thereby preventing the Federal Government from being held hostage to debt.
However, in instances where two individuals or groups are unable to find common ground or come to a consensus, it becomes necessary for them to separate. It is not feasible to persistently assert the execution of one's desires if the necessary resources for remuneration are lacking.