The leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Wing in Anambra State has reacted to a motion on the floor of the Nigerian House of Representatives, querying the progress of work on some power generating projects in Anambra State, especially, the Agu-Awka and Umuchu substations.
In a statement signed by the State Youth Leader of the organisation in Anambra State, Comrade Onyekachi Eweh, the group clarified that they are satisfied with the progress of work on the site and also appreciates the security and other logistics challenges encountered by the contactor in the execution of the project.
They also commended the governor of the State, Professor Charles Soludo for his prompt response in providing adequate security within the communities in order to ensure the completion of the project.
The statement reads:
“Our attention has been drawn to the motion moved on the floor of the House of Representatives on Tuesday, 8th October, 2024 by the Member Representing the Good People of Aguata Federal Constituency- Hon. Dominic Okafor, who called for probe of the Project, the Contractor and the purpose of the said abandonment of the Project.
“We want to state categorically that Agu-Awka Umuchu 132KV DC Transmission Line and 2 x 60MVA Substation at Ibughubu Umuchu with 2 x 132KV Line Bay Extension at Agu-Awka, Anambra State is not an abandoned project.
“To Set the record straight, we are very much aware that the Contractor of this Project mobilised to the site in 2021, and was initially faced with challenges of communal crisis over the project sites. In line with our resolve to hold our Representatives accountable on Public funds and resources, We consciously followed up and participated in all the processes of engaging with the over 15 (Fifteen) Communities along (within or outside) the DC Transmission route. Most of our members till today serve as CLO i.e community Laiason officers. While other members of our Youth who are Surveyors were part of the DC Transmission route Survey and clearing for the installation of the Transmission Towers.
“As we speak most of the equipment for the project is already on site including the Transformers. Every required earth moving work for the landscaping and other necessary preparations were done and completed since late 2023, and work in progress until the site was attacked by gunmen and killed two (2) Staff of the Cartlark International Limited at Ibughubu Umuchu.
“These challenges Notwithstanding, we are motivated and encouraged by the resilience and determination of the Contractor to deliver Project regardless of the unfortunate and life threatening encounters they face on a daily basis. We also commend Cartlark International Limited for engaging the Youths of the host communities, who work and benefit from the project, thereby reducing unemployment.
“May I use this opportunity to also commend the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo CFR (DikeUdo), for the proactive response in providing adequate security to the area in support of the Ongoing Project.
“We commend the Federal Government for this laudable initiative and investment in our dear State Anambra as we are certain that at completion and full operations, Anambra shall be more livable and prosperous.
God bless Cartlark International Limited.
God bless Anambra State.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
