Senate Gives FG One Week to Explain Unpaid Contractors’ Debts

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The Senate has issued a one-week ultimatum to the Federal Government to provide explanations on the mounting unpaid contractors’ debts amid growing pressure from the private sector.

The upper legislative chamber directed the Ministry of Finance to appear before it within seven days to brief lawmakers on the status of outstanding payments owed to contractors across the country.

The move follows mounting complaints from contractors who have not been paid for completed projects, leading to job losses, stalled projects, and increasing frustration within the business community.

According to reports, contractors have been piling pressure on the Finance Minister over unpaid billions, with some threatening legal action if payments are not expedited.

The Senate’s intervention comes as part of broader oversight efforts to ensure fiscal transparency and accountability in government spending. Lawmakers expressed concern that the mounting debt burden on contractors could have ripple effects on the economy, including reduced business confidence and slower economic activity.

A Senate committee has been tasked with liaising with the Ministry of Finance to ensure compliance with the ultimatum, with the possibility of further legislative action if the government fails to provide satisfactory explanations.

The development also comes as President Tinubu is scheduled to meet with National Assembly leaders to discuss various issues, including the APC post-primary crisis and contractor debts.

Sources: ThisDay