Contractors engaged in the SUBEC-UBEC projects under the Ekiti State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) are gearing up for a significant protest against the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. The protest is a response to the government’s failure to settle outstanding contract payments.
Engr. Ajibade Olufemi, a contractor, voiced his frustrations in an interview with journalists in Ado Ekiti. He highlighted the severe financial strain many contractors face due to delayed payments. “Many of us received building and renovation contracts in 2020, 2021, and 2022. To date, the payments we have received are far from what we have invested in these projects. We are suffering immensely as our funds remain withheld by the state government,” he stated.
Architect Ajimati Bankole, another contractor affiliated with the Ekiti SUBEB Indigenous Contractors, echoed these sentiments, expressing disappointment over the prolonged delays in payments. “I paid for these contracts before securing them, which applies to about 80% of us. We feel neglected and undervalued.
I believe the governor might not be aware of our plight, as he is known to be a listening leader. However, I suspect that those managing the disbursement, particularly Prof. Akinwumi, are complicating matters for us,” he said.
The contractors have warned that if payments are not made soon, they will organize a large-scale protest, further accusing the government of fraudulent practices in their dealings. The situation remains tense as contractors seek urgent resolution to their grievances.