By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
A group of contractors engaged by the Kaduna State Government has threatened to decommission boreholes and retrieve supplied equipment over alleged unpaid contract debts totaling ₦38 billion. The contractors, represented by the Eagle Brain Human Rights Organization, said more than 400 contractors involved in projects awarded since 2023 had not received payment despite completing assigned jobs.
Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna on Saturday, the group’s chairman, Daniel Ejembi, alleged that contractors executed projects under an agreement involving Formal Act Legacy and the Kaduna State Government.According to the group, the projects included borehole drilling, supply of vehicles, generators, hospital equipment, and other infrastructure across the state.
The contractors claimed they borrowed funds from banks and loan companies at high interest rates to complete the projects after receiving directives from the Ministry of Local Government. They also rejected a proposed distribution of ₦150 million reportedly generated from the sale of drugs linked to Formal Act Legacy, describing it as inadequate compared to the debts allegedly owed.
The group called for immediate payment of outstanding funds, a full explanation for the delay, and an independent audit of the contract process and drug sale. It further urged anti-corruption agencies and civil society organisations to investigate the matter.
The contractors said they would consider decommissioning completed projects if the dispute remains unresolved, describing the move as a measure of “self-preservation. ”As of the time of filing this report, the Kaduna State Government had not publicly responded to the allegations.
