The Senate has issued a warrant for the arrest of the Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Dr. Peer Lubasch, citing his consistent refusal to appear before its Committee on Works. The resolution was passed during Thursday’s plenary session following a motion brought forward by Senate Minority Whip, Senator Osita Ngwu (PDP, Enugu West), and co-sponsored by Senators Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC, Cross River South) and Mpigi Barinada (PDP, Rivers South-East).
Allegations of Negligence and Mismanagement
Senator Ngwu detailed that Julius Berger Nigeria Plc had repeatedly ignored invitations to clarify its involvement in the controversial Odukpani-Itu Highway project. Despite receiving over ₦18 billion in public funds, the project remains abandoned. He also highlighted a concerning escalation in the contract cost from ₦54 billion to ₦195 billion, which remains unexplained.
The Senate motion raised alarms about discrepancies in the performance of contractors across similar projects. Julius Berger, in particular, was accused of failing to meet contractual targets, prompting questions about accountability and transparency in the handling of public funds.
Legislative Mandates and Powers
The motion referenced Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which grant the National Assembly authority to investigate and summon individuals or entities involved in the administration of public funds. It also cited Section 6(1) of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, empowering the Senate to issue arrest warrants for those in contempt of legislative proceedings.
Senator Ngwu urged the Senate to exercise these powers, emphasizing that Julius Berger’s alleged termination of its contract for the Odukpani-Itu Highway project further underscored the need for an in-depth investigation. According to reports, the termination stemmed from the company’s demobilization from the project site and refusal to accept revised contract terms.
Senate Debates Next Steps
The motion ignited robust debate among senators on the appropriate course of action. While Senators Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia North), Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central), and Joel Onowakpo Thomas (APC, Delta) advocated for immediate issuance of the arrest warrant, others, including Senators Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North), and Ahmad Lawan (APC, Yobe North), called for resolving the matter at the committee level to avoid unnecessary escalation.
Despite the differing opinions, the Senate resolved to issue the arrest warrant. Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated that a specific date for the MD’s appearance before the Committee on Works would be stipulated in the arrest directive.
A Call for Accountability
The Senate’s decision underscores its commitment to ensuring accountability in the administration of public funds and adherence to legislative oversight processes. The warrant of arrest sends a strong message to contractors and public officials about the consequences of disregarding constitutional and legislative mandates.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is yet to issue an official response to the Senate’s resolution. Hobnob News will continue to provide updates as this story develops.
