…Accuse Govt Officials Of Failing To Follow Due Process
Following the abandoned dredging project for the channelization of the Ikorodu-Mende ferry route, residents of Mende in Lagos have called on the contractor handling the project to return to the site.
Speaking with newsmen, concerned residents alleged that dredging equipment had been abandoned and that engineers were no longer present on site. They urged Merited Construction Limited, the company, awarded the project, to resume work without further delay. “Since December last year 2023 to date, they have not performed to the expectations of the public”, they alleged.
According to Lagos monitoring, the residents had previously pleaded with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to fulfill his electoral promise to provide water transportation facilities and improve channelization projects in the area. They expressed anticipation for the governor to commence work on the waterways and pledged their support once the project began. Additionally, they assured Governor Sanwo-Olu that they would actively publicize the project once work is underway.
The residents question the government’s commitment to the project, just as they expressed doubt regarding the capacity and capability of the dredger brought to the site to handle he job.
“Our close observation shows that they are not doing anything at the site, but we are watching and monitoring the situation,” the residents quarried the competence of the Technical Director that recommended the Contractor for such a sensitive project”, the residents said.
The residents accused some senior civil servants in charge of the project of failing to follow due process, saying no sense of commitment towards the successful execution of the project had been demonstrated.
They expressed fears that poor implementation of channelization could exacerbate environmental problems and urged the government to prioritize these projects to improve water transportation and prevent further suffering.
The residents also called for regular supervision from the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development to ensure efficient project completion.
A community leader in Mende urged civil society platforms advocating for good governance to support the prioritization of channelization projects to enhance Lagos State’s water transportation system.
“We haven’t asked for much. Governor Sanwo-Olu promised to dredge the waterways in our area and make water transportation accessible and affordable. It’s disheartening that the government usually forgets that the masses need basic amenities,” a statement from the residents read.
The residents urged the government to ensure that the work is done and also the Hon. Commissioner should ensure that Permanent Secretary and Technical Director enforce compliance.
