……*WHEN IMPUNITY BECOMES A SYSTEM: WHERE IS THE FIGHT AGAINST CORRUPTION?*
I strongly condemn the reckless attitude and shameless irresponsibility of those involved in the failed Abuja CCTV project, a contract worth over $460 million, awarded with the promise of securing our nation’s capital, yet abandoned without remorse, transparency, or accountability.
It is utterly heartbreaking that such a monumental security investment was allegedly squandered, leaving Abuja and its residents vulnerable to the rising tide of terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and violent crimes. Had this project been executed diligently and judiciously, Nigeria especially the FCT would not be experiencing this devastating level of insecurity today.
Recent reports indicate that the House of Representatives has set up an ad hoc committee to probe the scandal. I commend this move, but I also urge the committee members to carry out their assignment with integrity, courage, and unwavering patriotism. Nigerians are watching. We expect fairness, transparency, and truth, not another round of empty investigations that lead nowhere.
For the sake of national security and public trust, the committee must:
• Conduct a forensic audit of the entire $460 million project.
• Expose all individuals, agencies, and contractors involved in this shameful fraud.
• Make public the complete details of the loan, payments, installations, and project status.
• Recover stolen or mismanaged funds where necessary.
Let it be known that no serious investor will wish to bring their resources into a country where insecurity has become the order of the day and where government projects meant to secure lives are recklessly abandoned.
As insecurity ravages our nation, the need to install a modern, functional CCTV network across Abuja has become both urgent and non-negotiable. If the original contractors failed, they must refund the entire $460 million so that the needful can be done immediately with reputable, competent hands.
The onus now lies squarely on the committee members to dig deep, unravel every layer of corruption, and expose every individual no matter how highly placed, who played a role in this national embarrassment. This is not the time for political protection or selective justice.
I also call on the Tinubu administration to ensure that appropriate sanctions are applied, irrespective of whose ox is gored. Security of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of every responsible government. Anything short of thorough accountability is unacceptable.
I condemn again, in the strongest terms, the attitude of individuals who receive massive public contracts only to divert funds for personal gain while endangering the lives of millions. Nigeria must rise above this culture of waste, corruption, and impunity.
It is time for truth.
It is time for justice.
It is time to reclaim our security and restore public trust.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
God bless every citizen striving for a safer, stronger nation.
*Oluchi Oparah*
*Fmr National Treasurer*
*Labour Party*
