Rivers State Government Dismisses Claims of Julius Berger’s Withdrawal from Projects

The Rivers State Administrator , Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has refuted allegations that Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is pulling out of its projects in the state due to unpaid contract fees.

According to Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Adviser to the government on media, these claims are false and intended to damage the administration’s reputation.

The government has consistently fulfilled its contractual obligations to contractors, including Julius Berger, which has received all payments due since the declaration of Emergency Rule in the state.

However, a dispute has arisen over a variation request submitted by Julius Berger for the Ring Road project. The company has demanded an additional ₦171.76 billion, representing an 87.77% increase on the original contract sum of ₦195.7 billion.

If approved, this would bring the total project cost to ₦367.45 billion. The government had paid a 77% advance payment of ₦150 billion to Julius Berger at the commencement of the project, and is wary of approving such a significant variation request.

The government believes that this request is unreasonable and is a result of failed attempts to pressure them into approving the increase.

The Rivers State Government has assured that it will continue to work with Julius Berger to complete the projects, but will not be swayed by unfounded claims and misinformation.

The government is committed to protecting the state’s interests and ensuring that all projects are completed in a transparent and cost-effective manner.