Representatives of Indigenous Contractors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have raised serious concerns over delayed payments for contractual services completed for various secretariats of the FCT Administration. In a heartfelt letter addressed to the Minister of FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, the contractors highlighted the adverse effects of these delays, including financial hardships, psychological trauma, and even loss of life among their members.
The contractors alleged that foreign contractors receive preferential treatment, citing prompt payments to these counterparts while indigenous contractors suffer from significant delays. According to the representatives, this disparity in treatment has led to severe financial strain, with many local contractors resorting to loans and personal funds to complete their projects.
Impact on Indigenous Contractors
The letter, dated July 15, 2024, detailed the plight of the indigenous contractors:
- Financial Hardships: Many contractors have used their savings and loans from banks to complete their projects, only to face delayed payments.
- Psychological Trauma: The uncertainty and financial strain have led to severe psychological stress among the contractors.
- Loss of Life: Tragically, the representatives reported that two of their members have died as a direct result of the financial pressures stemming from the delayed payments.
- Basic Needs and Medical Bills: Numerous contractors are struggling to meet their basic human needs, including medical expenses and loan repayments.
The contractors accused Minister Wike of consistently prioritizing payments to foreign multinational companies, often providing them with advance payments before job completion. In contrast, indigenous contractors face significant delays and neglect. The representatives expressed their disappointment, noting that their numerous correspondences to the Minister have gone unanswered.
The letter made an impassioned plea to Minister Wike, urging him to address their concerns as a matter of urgency. The representatives called for the Minister to fulfill the contractual obligations owed to them to prevent further hardships and potential loss of life among their members. They emphasized the need for equitable treatment and timely payments to ensure the sustainability of local contractor
The leak of this letter to journalists in Abuja has brought to light the severe challenges faced by indigenous contractors in the FCT. The contractors’ plea underscores the need for immediate intervention by the FCT Administration to address the disparities in payment practices and ensure fair treatment for all contractors, irrespective of their nationality. The group concluded their letter with a final plea: “We plead with the Honourable Minister to do the needful and grant us our request as we solicit a payment succor, please.”
