Reps to probe abandoned $785.2m power projects in Anambra

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the over $785 million released to a contractor handling the now-abandoned Umuchu Transmission Substation and Agu Awka–Umuchu Double CCT Lines projects.

The projects, managed by Cartlark International Limited, were awarded in 2021.

This resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Dominic Okafor during Tuesday’s plenary session.

In the motion, Mr Okafor explained that the contract for the construction of a 2x60MVA, 132/33kV substation at Umuchu, with a 2x132kV line bays extension at Agu Awka Substation and the Agu Awka-Umuchu 132kV double-circuit overhead transmission line, was awarded to Cartlark International Limited in 2021.

He noted that the government had disbursed over $785 million to the contractor for the two projects. However, work has since ceased at both sites.

“Since Cartlark International Limited was awarded the contract and a huge sum of money paid, the company only mobilized to the site and then abandoned the project, with no sign of resumption,” he said.

As a result, the House mandated its Committee on Power to invite the MD/CEO of Cartlark International Limited to explain the immediate and underlying causes of the project’s abandonment.

The committee was also directed to investigate the utilization of the significant funds allocated for the project’s execution.

Reps to probe abandoned $785.2m power projects in Anambra