Supporters of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State have slammed Governor Dauda Lawal for allegedly overspending on public projects, sparking concerns about transparency and accountability.
In a statement issued on Monday, Abdullahi Adamu Kanwuri Gusau, spokesperson for the PDP supporters, alleged that several projects, including road rehabilitations, building renovations, and contract awards, were inflated and awarded to individuals close to the administration.
Gusau said “Road construction from Investment House to Bello Bara’u Roundabout, Tsohuwar Kasuwa, Masallacin Dan Larai, and Yar Dole, covering 3.5 kilometers, was carried out at a cost of ₦10 billion.
” Additionally, a variation for the same road project increased the cost by ₦9 billion. Notably, this project was not new construction but a rehabilitation of an existing road.
“Another road construction project from Lalan to Yariman Bakura Hospital, spanning 4 to 5 kilometers, reportedly cost ₦17 billion.
“The renovation of the JB Secretariat was carried out at a cost of ₦20 billion, with the work allegedly limited to block replacements.
“A hall used for meetings with commissioners was also renovated, with the project costing ₦19 billion.”
“Controversially, the governor is accused of removing Islamic scholars from their office, which housed Islamic books, and reallocating the space to his wife. The renovation of this office reportedly cost ₦8 billion.
“Furthermore, the governor is alleged to have give his wife a ₦6 billion contract for the training of Askarawa (security personnel) and the provision of their uniforms”,the statement reads.