By DADA AYOKHAI
The political situation in Jattu, Etsako West LGA, has taken a dramatic turn with the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee inviting Hon Luqman Muhammed to appear before it regarding a petition over location of boreholes meant for the community
The Committee in his letter of invitation signed by the chairman , Eugene Okolose said it’s investigating allegations that boreholes meant for community use in Jattu, were sited in Hon Mohammed’s personal residence instead of the approved location.
Hon Mohammed whose reply to the agency’s invitation was handled by Jatto Topa Esq a solicitor in Luqman Mohammed and Co chamber expressed strong reservation and exception to the deliberate reference to him as “Mr. Lukeman Mohammed which casts serious identity problem as to the person you are inviting. At the earliest opportunity, we shall contest that our client is not the same person as Mr. Lukeman Mohammed who is allegedly been invited or investigated by you.”
Again, the chamber also noticed a foul play in the agency invitation , that a copy of the petition against Hon Mohammed, details of the allegations and the accusers were shielded.
”Our client has a right to know who are his accusers and the case they have alleged against him.”
While overlooking the two lapses ,he however denied the allegation that the boreholes were sited at his personal residence but volunteer some useful information which might help the committee.
According to the chamber, the contract for the construction of the two boreholes in Jattu was awarded through a letter dated 19th November, 2001 with reference No. C1039/T4/111 from the Ministry of Works and Transport.” As a responsible Committee, we think it will be worthwhile and helpful for you to search for that letter.”
The chamber further said,”The contract for the construction of the two boreholes in Jattu however became failed as the contactor could not deliver after receiving only 25% (twenty five) percent mobilization of the contract sum. The contractor’s rig and equipment he had mobilized to site worth several fortunes of naira were seized until about 2020 when Hon. Phillip Shaibu as Deputy Governor of the State facilitated the auction of the equipments as scrap using Alhaji Abudu Momodu JP as the preferred state auctioneer under very controversial circumstances that defy transparency and due process.”
”Perhaps, he has an explanation to give to you. “
Hon Lukman Mohammed’s chamber asserts that the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee lacks the authority to investigate failed contracts, conspiracy, diversion of funds, or abuse of public office, as these matters fall outside their purview. They noted that their client has already been investigated by the relevant law enforcement agency regarding these issues.
The chamber also urged the Edo State Public Property Protection Committee against being used for settling scores, stating their client won’t attend the scheduled interview. They’re prepared to take the committee to court over the legality of their powers to investigate, citing the issues raised.
”Edo Property Committee Summons Luqman Mohammed Over Abandoned Jattu Borehole
