Julius Berger Nigeria, the contractor responsible for the 39-kilometre Bonny-Bodo Road project, has been given a stern directive by the Federal Government: complete the project by year-end.
This mandate was delivered by Works Minister Dave Umahi during a recent meeting.
Umahi firmly rejected Julius Berger’s request for a N28 billion variation on the project, which is currently at 82% completion. Instead, the government offered an additional N20 billion to ensure the timely completion of the road, crucial for connecting Bonny Island to the rest of Rivers State.
The Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Yakubu Kofarmata, highlighted that the initial deadline for the N199.923 billion project was December of the previous year, with a clear stipulation against further variations. Umahi emphasised that no contractor has the authority to unilaterally dictate terms on agreed-upon contracts.
In response to Julius Berger’s request, Umahi outlined the legal requirement for both parties to review contract terms before any amendments.
He presented the contractor with a choice: accept the government’s terms and proceed with the project or voluntarily terminate the contract.
Failure to comply with the government’s directives could result in serious consequences for Julius Berger. Umahi warned that if the contractor fails to return to the site by the given deadline, the government will take action in accordance with the previously expired ultimatum.
These developments unfolded during a meeting in Abuja between government officials, Julius Berger’s Managing Director Lars Ritcher, and representatives from the Bodo-Bonny Road Peace Committee.
The meeting was convened following Julius Berger’s letter requesting additional funds and outlining conditions for project completion.
