By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Arewa Coalition For Justice (ACJ) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reconsider the cancellation of the Katsina- Kankara- Dutsinma Road Project, because it’s a strategic roadway spanning 7 Local Government Areas in Katsina State.

While addressing journalists in Kaduna on Tuesday, Chairman of the Coalition, Ibrahim Muhammad, said they had to express their deep concern and displeasure
regarding the recent developments surrounding the award and subsequent
cancellation of the contract for the Katsina-Kankara-Dutsinma-Maraba Kankara road project.

“It is well-documented that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration pledged
to prioritize infrastructural development across the nation to boost the economy
and create employment opportunities. True to this commitment, the administration has indeed prioritized the development of critical infrastructure, including roads and housing.”

“Among these crucial projects is the Katsina-Kankara-Dutsinma-Maraba Kankara road project, a strategic roadway spanning seven local government areas in Katsina State. This road, one of the busiest in the state, was awarded a contract for total repair in April this year. We were elated by this development, as it promised to significantly improve the quality of life for residents of the adjoining communities and stimulate economic activities in a region plagued by banditry.”

“However, we were alarmed to learn about the cancellation of this vital road project, which holds immense potential for the prosperity of Katsina State and Northern Nigeria. The cancellation raises several critical questions:Why would the government cancel such an economically and socially beneficial
project? The road was set to enhance economic prosperity in the north and provide numerous employment opportunities for the youth.”

The Coalition alleged that some went to the president and asked that the project be cancelled because it was awarded to a company linked to member of the opposition party. “This is sad and it shows that these people have little or no regards for the state and they are bent on sabotaging the efforts of Mr
president. We want the public and indeed, citizens of Katsina to know this.”

“This cancellation could be seen as a deliberate attempt to create a rift between the president and the northern region. Moreover, it portrays the administration negatively to the people of Katsina State and the north in general.”

“In light of these issues, we urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and direct the Ministry of Works to reverse this decision. Canceling the project could
discourage future investors who may fear that government contracts are unreliable.
Additionally, the government should consider the potential legal implications if the contractor seeks redress in court.
We appeal to the President to allow the project to proceed in the interest of justice and fair play. We also call upon members of the National Assembly from the northwest to advocate for the reversal of this cancellation.”

The Coalition urged the president to investigate all road projects awarded and possibly act on those whose actions have the potential to scare investors away from Nigeria.

They appealed to the people of Katsina, particularly those in the affected
communities, to remain patient and await the President’s response. “We trust in President Tinubu’s reputation as a listening leader. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”