Benue Community Rejects Substandard Borehole Project by lawmaker.
In a significant turn of events, the Auke community in Apa Local Government has officially rejected a borehole project initiated by Honorable Ojotu Ojema, the representative for the Apa-Agatu federal constituency in the 10th, Assembly. Hon. Pastor. Ojotu Ojema. This decision comes on the heels of growing frustration among residents over the apparent substandard quality of the borehole, which was publicly commissioned on social media by one of Ojema’s assistants, Chief. Olikita Ekani, raising numerous red flags within the community.
Residents have openly criticized the project, highlighting the use of inadequate materials, including subpar steel and inferior pipes. Their concerns have escalated to the point where the community has completely ceased using the borehole for its water supply, fearing it might collapse under its own weight. A risk assessment undertaken by community members further confirmed these fears, labeling the borehole as hazardous and rendering it unusable.
Comrade Paul Edoh Jr., a well known community activist in the Apa and Agatu constitutioncy, expressed the community’s deep disappointment. “We believe the poor quality of the work is a direct result of inadequate supervision and oversight, particularly during Hon. Ojema’s absence from the area after completion of work,” Edoh said. He emphasized that while the representative has been engaged in international duties, vital legislative decisions affecting the Constituency were made without his presence, prompting concerns about his commitment to local issues since he took office in 2023.
As the elected representative of Auke, Hon. Ojema has the duty to legislate, oversee developmental projects, and address the needs of his constituents. However, many residents feel that crucial inspections and quality assessments essential components of responsible public spending, have been overlooked in this and other community projects.
An investigation revealed alarming discrepancies regarding the borehole’s original design specifications. The contractor, identified as Joshua, had only installed two water tanks instead of the six that were promised, highlighting significant mismanagement and a breach of trust regarding the commitments made to the community.
Importantly, the funds for this project did not come from Hon. Ojema’s personal finances. They were federal allocations specifically earmarked for community development, which raises questions about the proper management and oversight of these resources.
In light of these issues, the Auke community is urgently calling on Honorable Ojotu Ojema to take immediate action. They are demanding enhanced oversight and quality checks on all zonal intervention projects moving forward. Furthermore, they insist he prioritize attendance at legislative sessions to ensure he is effectively representing the interests of his constituents.
“The Auke community deserves significantly better. We will continue to advocate for our rights and demand responsible stewardship of public funds allocated for our development,” Edoh concluded, firmly asserting the community’s commitment to holding their representative accountable.
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