By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – Contractors who executed contracts and supplied goods to the Imo State Government between 2011 and 2015 have called on the state to urgently settle an outstanding debt of approximately N15 billion.

The group, struggling with severe financial hardships, has warned that further delay in payment could lead to more lives being lost due to the toll the debt is taking on their mental and physical health.

At a press briefing held in Abuja on Tuesday, contractor Great Nwokewho spoke on behalf of the group, highlighting the dire consequences of the non-payment.

Nwokewho explained that the delay in settling the debt has resulted in overwhelming financial pressures, including accumulated interest rates from banks that have exacerbated the contractors’ struggles.

He stated that some contractors are now unable to feed their families, with many experiencing severe depression due to the financial strain.

The contractors, who collectively claim a total of N15,989,213,218 in unpaid debts, appealed for the Imo State Government to immediately fulfill its financial obligations.

They expressed deep concern over the potential loss of more lives if the matter is not resolved promptly, citing cases of contractors’ deaths attributed to depression caused by the debt.

In addition to requesting the debt be paid, the group has called for a detailed investigation into the non-payment and urged the Legislative Chamber to exercise its oversight function to ensure that the state government meets its contractual obligations. They also called on the chamber to address the matter and facilitate a swift resolution.

The contractors stressed the urgent need for the Imo State Government to take immediate action to clear the outstanding debt, stressing that further delays would continue to have devastating effects on their lives and livelihoods.

Nwokewho stated, “We have gathered here today to address a pressing matter regarding the non-payment of an aggregate sum of N15,989,213,218.00 (Fifteen Billion Nine Hundred and Eighty Nine Million Two Hundred and Thirteen Thousand, Two Hundred And Eighteen Naira) owed to us for supplies made and contracts executed in Imo State between 2011 and 2015.

“The delay in payment by the Imo State Government to our individual companies respectively has resulted in severe consequences, including the loss of lives due to depression caused by accumulated interest rates from banks. We fear that if urgent action is not taken, more lives may be lost.

“We appeal to the Imo State government to settle our outstanding balance without further delay.

“Other key demands include: Conduct a detailed investigation into this complaint Compel the Imo State Government to pay the owed sum, ensure the legislative chamber exercises its oversight functions to fulfill contractual obligations.

“We urge the Legislative Chamber to consider our complaint and resolve this matter accordingly.”