Zamfara State Government has warned that it will not tolerate any attempt to sabotage the ongoing airport construction in the state.
The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Alhaji Lawal Barau Bungudu, issued the warning while addressing journalists in Gusau, the state capital.
His statement came in response to a complaint from the contractors handling the project, who reported acts of sabotage affecting the construction of the perimeter fence.
According to the commissioner, the airport project is progressing according to plan and schedule, with contractors delivering quality work as agreed in the contract terms.
“Yesterday, around this time, I was at the airport to inspect the second decking, which is the final decking of the domestic terminal building. The work is going very well,” he said.
He further disclosed that, the stone base of the runway commenced about two to three weeks ago and is expected to be completed within a month, after which the asphalt will begin.
Alhaji Lawal Bungudu acknowledged that, while the project is progressing well, but some challenges have been encountered, particularly with some locals around the airport.
“If not for certain issues we encountered with the locals, the vision of having pilgrims take off from Gusau International Airport would have materialized ,” he stated.
He accused some individuals of attempting to derail the project, saying that, opposition elements might be behind these acts.
The commissioner confirmed that the contractors have raised multiple concerns, including vandalism of construction materials by some individuals.
“For instance, the perimeter fencing and the distance pegs installed by contractors are being destroyed by certain unscrupulous elements who steal iron rods. It’s shocking that someone would destroy a project worth millions of naira just for petty financial gain,” he lamented.
He also revealed that some residents are refusing to vacate the airport premises despite receiving compensation from both the previous and current administrations.
“I had a discussion with the District Head of Rawayya yesterday, and I made it clear that they must relocate within one month to allow the contractors to complete their work,” he added.
The commissioner reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the project, explaining that no arrests have been made yet, but warning that, any culprits caught sabotaging the project will face severe consequences.
“If we arrest anyone, they will be made an example. The government will not take it lightly and will ensure they face punishment to serve as a deterrent to others,” he warned.
He reassured the public that the state government remains determined to see the airport project completed, despite any challenges.
COV/AMINU DALHATU
