SERMATECH Nigeria Limited has pushed back against growing criticism over its handling of the Odukpani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Federal Highway project, insisting that it has neither abandoned the road nor acted in bad faith, despite prolonged non-payment for completed works and unresolved compensation issues affecting communities along the corridor NEGROIDHAVEN has reported.
The construction firm stated that it has remained committed to the federal project even in the face of severe funding constraints, stressing that delays experienced on the road are largely linked to issues outside its control, particularly the non-payment of compensation to property owners by the State Government and outstanding financial obligations from the Federal Government.
According to Ita Ayi Asuquo, SERMATECH’s Public Relations Officer, compensation for demolished structures is the statutory responsibility of the State Government and not the contractor, noting that survey and valuation reports were concluded and submitted by the relevant consultants long ago. The firm argued that the absence of compensation created bottlenecks that affected unhindered access to certain sections of the road, thereby slowing construction activities.
The company further maintained that it has continued to operate on the corridor despite these challenges, keeping personnel and equipment on site and carrying out remedial and palliative works to ensure partial motorability of the road. It also dismissed claims that the project had been completely abandoned, adding that it had engaged local youths as part of its corporate and community engagement efforts.
SERMATECH called for a fair and technical assessment of the project, urging stakeholders to distinguish between contractor obligations and those of the State and Federal Governments, particularly on compensation and funding issues. The firm appealed for constructive engagement rather than what it described as public condemnation capable of undermining project completion.
The highway, which serves as a strategic link between Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, has continued to draw public attention, with both the contractor and community leaders urging decisive intervention by the State and Federal Governments to resolve lingering issues and fast-track completion.
