Minister of State for Works, Chris Ogiemwonyi, has cautioned Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, not to politicise the termination of the Ugbowo-Uselu road contract.
A statement at the weekend by Chief Press Secretary to the minister, Taye Akinyemi, urged Oshimhole “not to unduly politicise just for the purpose of gaining undue publicity”.
It said the ministry needed to state the facts of the case so that an issue that concerns the welfare and wellbeing of ordinary Nigerians was not unduly politicised just for the purpose of gaining undue publicity.
The statement reads in party: “It is on record that the Federal Government has put in place a policy that encourages state governments to undertake repairs/reconstruction of roads within their jurisdiction in the effort to strengthen and sustain infrastructural development across the country.
“It is also on record that many state governments across the nation have taken advantage of this policy and are working in close collaboration with the ministry in the endeavour to improve our road network.
“However, this policy is hinged on the fact that before commencement of work on each project on federal roads, approval must be sought and obtained from the ministry and each project must be carried out in compliance with the ministry’s specification and standard.
“It is in the light of the above that the Hon. Minister of State for Works, Engr. Chris Ogiemwonyi, only reiterated an existing government policy.
“It is therefore unexpected that an issue meant to strengthen an existing government policy could be given so many interpretations that defy simple logic.
“Since public private partnership is a policy of government, it would appear contradictory to discourage any authority or ministry, department and agency from implementing projects that would enhance the quality of life of the citizenry.
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