Senate Summons Julius Berger MD Over Refusal to Honour Invitations

The Nigerian Senate has summoned the Managing Director (MD) of Julius Berger to explain the company’s role in the Odukpani-Itu Highway project after it reportedly failed to honour multiple invitations to provide details of its involvement. The motion, sponsored by Senator Osita Ngwu, highlights that the construction firm received over ₦18 billion in public funds for the project, yet has not responded to the Senate’s inquiries.

The Senate condemned Julius Berger’s refusal to attend the hearings, calling it an act of contempt and a disregard for the authority of the National Assembly. As a result, the Senate invoked its constitutional powers and issued a warrant of arrest to ensure the attendance of the Julius Berger MD at the rescheduled investigative hearing.

In addition, the Senate discussed the issue of demolitions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). A motion led by Senator Ireti Kingibe of the FCT Senatorial District expressed concerns about the illegal demolitions that have left many residents homeless. The Senate has agreed to set up an investigative committee to probe the demolitions and invited the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to explain the rationale behind the actions. The committee is expected to report back within a specified timeframe.