The Nigerian Senate on Thursday, December 12, directed its President, Godswill Akpabio, to issue a warrant of arrest against Dr. Peer Lubasch, Managing Director of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, to ensure his appearance before its Committee on Works.
The decision followed a motion raised by Minority Whip Osita Ngwu (PDP, Enugu West), co-sponsored by Senators Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC, Cross River South) and Mpigi Barinada (PDP, Rivers South-East), during plenary. The senators expressed concerns over Julius Berger’s failure to honor multiple invitations to address allegations of abandoned projects and a significant escalation in contract costs.
Senator Ngwu highlighted the company’s alleged refusal to provide details about its handling of the Odukpani-Itu Highway project despite receiving over ₦18 billion in public funds. He described the alarming cost increase from ₦54 billion to ₦195 billion as unjustified and criticized Julius Berger for failing to meet performance targets.
Citing Sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, Senator Ngwu emphasized the Senate’s authority to investigate, summon, and issue warrants of arrest against those found in contempt of its proceedings.
The motion further noted that Julius Berger’s contract for the Odukpani-Itu Highway project had been terminated due to the company’s refusal to accept revised terms and demobilization from the project site.
In response, the Senate unanimously agreed to invoke its constitutional powers, directing the Senate President to issue a warrant compelling Dr. Peer Lubasch’s attendance at a rescheduled investigative hearing.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio affirmed the resolution, noting that the date for the MD’s appearance before the Committee on Works would be specified in the arrest warrant.
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