Probe Into Ogun-Osun River Basin Procurement Scandal Stalls as BPP is Accused of Bias

An inquiry into alleged procurement improprieties at the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (O-ORBDA) has reached a stalemate, with critics accusing the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) of partiality and foot-dragging that may weaken trust in Nigeria’s public contracting process.

The scandal, which surfaced through formal petitions by internal officials and contractors, revolves around claims of inflated contract sums, collusive bidding practices and contract awards that allegedly sidelined statutory guidelines.

According to individuals familiar with the matter, the BPP acknowledged multiple complaints earlier in the year and initially directed the agency to submit full procurement documentation, including bid records, evaluation sheets and cost assessments.

The Bureau also reportedly placed temporary suspensions on certain procurement actions pending a review.

However, insiders contend that subsequent follow-up has been inconsistent, leaving critical data requests unanswered and slowing the investigation considerably.

Tensions within O-ORBDA have worsened the situation. Members of the board have accused the management of bypassing oversight processes and moving ahead with contract approvals without involving required supervisory channels.

Several senior officials claim they were deliberately kept out of procurement briefings and bid evaluations, suggesting that decision-making was concentrated in the hands of a small executive circle.

Whistleblowers and industry players now allege selective enforcement by the BPP. Some claim the Bureau has been reluctant to summon key individuals or subpoena crucial records, raising suspicions that parts of the process may be tilted to protect certain interests.

Critics argue that the slow pace of action has created an atmosphere of impunity and frustration among stakeholders seeking accountability.

The stalled inquiry has had tangible consequences on public projects, particularly those tied to the 2025 implementation cycle.

With procurement decisions frozen or delayed, various infrastructure and water management projects have been put on hold, heightening concerns over delivery timelines and budgetary efficiency. Market observers warn that the uncertainty could further increase project costs and discourage competitive bidding if not resolved promptly.

Civil society groups, anti-corruption advocates and affected contractors are now calling for a more transparent, multi-agency review.

There are rising appeals for Nigeria’s anti-graft bodies to step in, conduct an independent audit of both the procurement process and the BPP’s handling of the probe, and bring forward a clear outcome with potential consequences for any confirmed violations.

For many, this episode underscores deeper systemic weaknesses in Nigeria’s procurement oversight structure — and the urgent need for reforms that ensure fairness, accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.