A controversial water project in Yobe State, initially intended to provide clean drinking water, has become a focal point of public outrage and accusations of corruption. The project, purportedly aimed at replacing a former children’s play area (referred to as “sling swing”) with a functional water supply system, is now facing severe criticism regarding its execution and financial management.
The project is linked to Senator Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, the former President of the 9th Senate and current Yobe North Senator. Senator Lawan’s long tenure in the parliament, spanning approximately 30 years, has drawn scrutiny, with some residents claiming that his career is marked by a lack of substantial developmental achievements.
“This used to be the place we played sling swing (Lilo) as kids… This guy who spent about 30 years in office, making me as old as his incumbency, who has zero project that goes beyond a hundred million Naira was once even a president of the Senate! What a monumental failure his entire career must be!”, lamented a source.
Adding fuel to the controversy, Senator Lawan’s alleged ambition to contest in the 2027 gubernatorial elections has been met with skepticism. Critics express concern about the potential for further mismanagement and wasted resources, citing a pattern of “classical stupidity” among the electorate.
The accusations of fraud and negligence are particularly focused on the handling of the project’s funds. Sources, including Usman Umar Nagona and Habu Nawi Katuzu, have raised serious allegations: “4 Billion water fraudject, jama’a ku tayani dubawa a ina 500M ta mutu anan? Meanwhile, the work has not even reached 40% completion… The quality is substandard, timelines are completely ignored, and there’s a clear lack of accountability.”
The total budget for the water project is reported to be 4 billion Naira, with concerns that 500 million Naira is unaccounted for, despite the project’s completion rate being less than 40%. The reports of substandard quality, missed deadlines, and a lack of transparency have intensified calls for an investigation into the project’s management.
The controversy surrounding the water project has raised questions about Senator Lawan’s legacy and his suitability for higher office. As Yobe State approaches the 2027 elections, the allegations of fraud and negligence in this project are likely to play a significant role in the political discourse.
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