Alleged EFCC probe: ADC urges Enugu govt to come clean on commissioner’s reported resignation
Enugu State’s African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a statement regarding the reported resignation of Dr. Obi Ozor, the State Commissioner for Transport. Local media, including DAILY POST, have circulated rumors about the commissioner’s departure from his position.
Recent reports suggest Ozor was interrogated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) concerning alleged irregularities related to the procurement of aircraft for Enugu Air. According to these accounts, upon returning to his office, Ozor was reportedly denied entry and subsequently instructed to resign.
In response to these developments, the ADC released a statement on Wednesday, asserting that the alleged resignation exemplifies their ongoing concerns about the administration of Governor Peter Mbah. The party criticized the government’s operations, stating that they are characterized by a lack of transparency.
“The awarding of contracts appears to be occurring without competitive bidding, and there is little public access to information regarding contract advertisements, as mandated by law,” the statement noted. It also highlighted a troubling trend of indiscriminate signing of Memoranda of Understanding, with no clarity on the negotiation processes involved.
The ADC lamented the collapse of several infrastructure projects, including so-called “smart schools,” which they claimed either failed shortly after completion or were never constructed despite the financial burdens placed on residents through increased taxes. They recalled an incident involving Sujimoto Luxury Construction Limited, a contractor for the school projects, alleging that the company absconded with substantial funds paid by the state government. The party claimed the EFCC detained the company’s CEO, Dr. Olasijibomi, and recovered N1.2 billion, leaving an unanswered question about the remaining N4.5 billion.
The statement painted a bleak picture of the state’s economy under Mbah’s administration, citing abandoned healthcare facilities and deteriorating infrastructure. The ADC raised concerns about recent demolitions, including those of the Ogige Main Market in Nsukka, affecting approximately 7,000 local traders.
Despite the seriousness of these allegations, neither Commissioner Ozor nor the state government has provided comment at this time. The ADC promised that if elected to power, it would ensure greater compliance with the Public Procurement Act and bring about more transparent governance practices in Enugu State.