– A civic accountability group, MonITNG, has raised alarm over the 1.5km Irete–Ndegwu Road project in Owerri West LGA, Imo State, warning that the stalled construction endangers pregnant women, schoolchildren, and local commuters.

According to MonITNG, the road project has appeared in the federal budget for two consecutive years, yet no visible work has been carried out on the site. The group claims that the Federal Ministry of Works released ₦273.3 million to Pinnatech Engineering Ltd in October 2024, but the contractor has yet to mobilize or commence construction.

“This project first appeared in the 2023 Federal Government budget and was inexplicably recycled again in 2024, despite having no trace of execution on the ground,” the organisation stated.

The road, classified under Project Code ERGP202303924, was approved with a total budget of ₦400 million under the Ministry of Works and Housing. MonITNG emphasized that the road is critical for trade, healthcare access, and education, linking multiple communities in Owerri West.

Physical inspections conducted by Tracka monitors revealed that the site remains muddy, flooded, and unsafe, with no construction equipment, signboards, gravel, or asphalt visible. “Children still trek through floodwater on their way to school. Pregnant women are forced onto motorcycles during medical emergencies,” the group reported.

MonITNG also highlighted the economic impact, noting that traders lose income as goods fail to reach markets on time. “Instead of bringing relief, this project has become another painful reminder of broken promises and systemic neglect,” the statement added.

The group expressed concern over repeated budget allocations. The same road was listed as “ONGOING” in the 2024 federal budget under Code ERGP12209601, with an additional ₦71.75 million allocated, yet the previously released ₦273.3 million appears unaccounted for.

“This is not a case of weak implementation. It reflects a deeper problem of deliberate misuse of public funds carried out without consequences,” MonITNG argued.

The organisation called for full transparency from the Federal Ministry of Works, demanding the release of contract documents, payment records, and valuation certificates, as well as clear proof of any work claimed. MonITNG also urged anti-corruption agencies, including the ICPC and EFCC, to investigate Pinnatech Engineering Ltd and all officials involved in the project.

“Public funds must be traced, recovered where misused, and this road constructed without further delay. The people deserve accountability, justice, and a safe, motorable road now,” the group concluded.