In a shocking revelation, some documents surfaced exposing how ex-governor Bello Matawalle allegedly misappropriated over N1 billion meant for the construction of a catering and hotel services center, Gusau Motel, in the state capital.
The Zamfara State Government, under Governor Dauda Lawal, released detailed information, revealing questionable payments made to 180 Circle Construction and Engineering Ltd, raising concerns about financial transparency and accountability.
The spokesperson for Governor Dauda Lawal, Suleiman Bala Idris, emphasized the need for Matawalle to explain the substantial payment of 93% of the allocated funds to the construction company.
The state government, in a bid to uphold transparency, disclosed the information to curb financial malpractices among public officials.
The statement highlighted that the project, awarded on July 16, 2020, faced irregularities from the start, with Matawalle approving a significant mobilization fee to 180 Circle Engineering Construction and Engineering Ltd on August 7, 2020.
He added that the contractor vanished for a year after receiving payment, violating financial regulations.
According to Idris, upon the contractor’s return, they were instructed by the Ministry of Works to commit to proper project execution.
“Despite subsequent payments of N100,420,259.62 (July 6, 2021), N257,060,936.72 (August 27, 2021), N185,250,000.00 (August 27, 2021), and N20,000,000.00 (March 24, 2022), the project’s core components, including the multi-purpose hall, restaurant, laundry, badminton court, swimming pool, estate roads, landscape, electrification, water reticulation, and perimeter fence, remain untouched.
Disturbingly,N1,011,801,545.79, representing 93% of the total contract sum, was certified and paid despite the project’s minimal progress.
An overpayment of 667,713,161.64 million Naira was disclosed, raising concerns about financial misconduct.
The Zamfara State Government expressed its commitment to uncovering any breaches of trust and holding those responsible accountable, emphasizing their dedication to the people’s trust and the ongoing rescue mission.
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