Common Good Letter Demands Hartland’s Response Over Reported ₦14bn Road Project Payment
Politics

Common Good Letter Demands Hartland’s Response Over Reported ₦14bn Road Project Payment

The Common Good Letter has demanded a formal response from Hartland Nigeria Limited over allegations concerning the Summit Junction–Head Bridge road project and a reported payment of up to ₦14 billion by the Federal Government.

In a letter dated September 9, 2026, the public-interest accountability initiative said the allegations followed public statements by the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, concerning the project.

According to the group, Umahi had stated on August 28, 2026, that the Federal Government paid approximately or up to ₦14 billion to Hartland for the construction of about 11 kilometres of road from Summit Junction to Head Bridge, including channelisation and hydraulic structures.

The Minister was also reported to have said that only about 40 per cent of the agreed work had been completed and directed steps relating to recovery of funds, examination of payment certificates and possible action against the company’s Managing Director.

The Common Good Letter, however, stressed that the minister’s statements are allegations and should not be treated as established facts until independently investigated and supported by documentary evidence.

The organisation said it submitted a petition on September 4, 2026, requesting an independent investigation into the reported payment, as well as the award, financing, execution and supervision of the project.

It also said it welcomed reports that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, had commenced an investigation, including a reported site visit.

The group is asking Hartland to clarify the exact contract value, the amount received from the Federal Government, the percentage of work completed and the certificates issued, approved and paid.

It also wants the company to explain any delays in the project, disclose the status of its advance payment guarantee or performance bond, and state whether it disputes any part of the minister’s public statements.

The Common Good Letter said it was not seeking to prejudge Hartland, its directors, officers or consultants, stressing that all parties should be heard and claims tested against documentary evidence.

It has given the company seven days from receipt of the letter to submit a written response and supporting documents.

The initiative said its objective is to establish the facts, protect public resources and ensure completion of the road project in the public interest.

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