Umahi Orders Arrest of Hartland MD Over ₦14bn Contract Breach

Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has taken decisive action against the Managing Director of Hartland Nigeria Ltd, ordering his arrest for alleged non-performance on an 11-kilometre road contract valued at approximately ₦14 billion.

During an inspection of the Agbor-Asaba-Onitsha corridor in Delta State, Umahi expressed his frustration that the contractor had completed only 40% of the project despite receiving the full payment. He emphasized the agreement included not only the road but also crucial channelization and hydraulic structures.

"I’ve reached out to the MD to urge them to return to the site, but they have failed to comply. I will not hesitate to have him arrested," Umahi stated firmly.

In a pointed directive to ministry officials, he instructed them to initiate efforts to recover the funds paid to Hartland. “Tell the Directors of C&R to contact the banks for a refund immediately,” he ordered.

Umahi characterized the contractor's performance as entirely unacceptable, saying, "Failing to perform basic filling on the road is pure wickedness." He demanded immediate action to fill the approaches on both sides of the bridge by the next morning.

An audit of Hartland’s payment records is also on the table, with Umahi warning of potential sanctions if discrepancies are found. “They must submit all their payment records and certificates for review,” he stressed.

In addition to this urgent matter, Umahi voiced his outrage over vandalism on the Second Niger Bridge, revealing the removal of critical components such as bolts and steel members. “We can’t keep repairing these structures while they are being sabotaged. Where is the funding for such repairs?” he queried.

He cautioned that ongoing vandalism could jeopardize the bridge's safety, leading to catastrophic consequences. “We don't have an emergency fund to address these issues, and if left unattended, it could result in disaster,” he warned.

To combat the vandalism, Umahi ordered immediate repairs and enhanced security measures, including the installation of solar-powered lights and CCTV cameras. The feeds from these cameras will be accessible to ministry officials and security agencies.

The minister also inspected erosion damage around the bridge, directing that remedial work begin without delay. 

Umahi's firm stance underscores the government’s commitment to accountability and infrastructure integrity, sending a clear message to contractors about the expectations for project execution.