Why Senate Issued Arrest Warrant Against Julius Berger?

The Nigerian Senate has escalated its ongoing tussle with construction giant Julius Berger Nigeria Plc by issuing a warrant of arrest against the company's management. This development followed the company's repeated failure to honor invitations from the Senate Committee on Works to address critical concerns about its project execution across the country.

The motion, raised by Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West), highlighted the company's pattern of avoiding legislative summons. Ngwu expressed frustration over Julius Berger's perceived disregard for the Senate's authority, citing the poor state of several projects under its management as a pressing issue that necessitated investigation.

"Julius Berger has numerous failed contracts across the country, yet they treat the Senate with disdain by refusing to appear for discussions that could resolve these issues,ÔÇØ Ngwu stated.

He called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to enforce the chamber's constitutional powers by compelling the company to appear for questioning.

Supporting Ngwu's position, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) underscored the Senate's constitutional mandate to summon individuals and entities for oversight purposes. He clarified that the issuance of a warrant of arrest is legally grounded in the Constitution and Senate Rules, which empower the presiding officer to take such measures when necessary.

"There is no ambiguity in the Constitution regarding the powers of the National Assembly to summon or compel attendance. This is critical for accountability and transparency,ÔÇØ Ningi emphasized.

While Senator Adams Oshiomhole expressed reservations about the approach, Akpabio ruled in favor of the warrant, citing Sections of the Constitution and Senate Standing Rules that support the legislature's actions in matters of oversight and investigation.

The Senate's move comes against the backdrop of public outcry over several uncompleted and poorly executed projects reportedly handled by Julius Berger. Key projects, including federal roads and critical infrastructure, remain in deplorable conditions despite massive financial allocations.

Senators argue that the company's refusal to engage with legislative inquiries obstructs efforts to ensure transparency in public works and deliver value to Nigerians.

With the warrant of arrest issued, the Senate expects the management of Julius Berger to comply promptly. Failure to do so could lead to legal consequences and further legislative sanctions against the company.

The Senate's firm stance reflects growing dissatisfaction with the performance of contractors entrusted with national projects and signals a broader effort to enforce accountability in governance.