By Abubakar Yunusa
The National Youths Appropriation Initiative (NYAI), a prominent civil society organization, has urged anti-corruption agencies to scrutinize the alleged $65 million fraud involving the uncompleted Goodluck Legacy Estate.
NYAI’s president, Ishaq Hussein, stressed the necessity of investigating Ahmed Dangiwa, the current Minister of Housing and Urban Development, over his role in the stalled project.
“Not investigating or inviting Ahmed Dangiwa over the $65 million NHF housing projects is unprofessional,” Hussein stated.
According to Hussein,Ahmed Dangiwa, formerly the Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), assumed control of the Goodluck Legacy Estate project from his predecessor, Dr. Gimba Kumo, on February 14, 2016.
“The project, initiated under Kumo’s administration and contracted to Great Heart Power Nigeria Limited, has faced significant delays since the leadership change”.
Hussein highlighted that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) had previously noted irregularities but has yet to investigate Dangiwa’s tenure thoroughly.
The NYAI’s statement details the setbacks under Dangiwa’s management, suggesting that his actions may have intentionally obstructed progress. This lack of advancement in the project has deprived many Nigerians of affordable housing opportunities.
“Under Dangiwa’s management, reports indicate that the Goodluck Legacy Estate project in Abuja was stalled. The reasons behind his actions to frustrate the contractors and developers remain unknown,” the statement read.
The NYAI calls on President Tinubu to consider the political history and actions of his housing minister. The organization urges a comprehensive investigation to restore faith in the housing project and ensure accountability.
“The FMBN (Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Legacy Estate) is a model housing estate development designed to deliver all the services of a modern urban setting,” the statement noted, emphasizing the importance of the project’s completion for the community.
The estate, located in Kaba District, FCT Abuja, was envisioned to include diverse residential housing types, schools, shopping centers, worship centers, maintenance facilities, an integrated organic hybrid agro facility, and dedicated power and waste recycling plants.
“As we calls for transparency and accountability grow louder, the spotlight remains on Ahmed Dangiwa and his management of the Goodluck Legacy Estate.
“The NYAI’s demands reflect a broader public interest in ensuring that such significant projects are completed without corruption and inefficiency.”
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