Anambra Streetlight Contractors Protest Over Unpaid N900m, Accuse Government Of Selective Payments
DOZENS of streetlight contractors in Anambra State staged a peaceful protest on Monday, demanding the payment of outstanding debts totaling approximately N900 million for diesel supplies used to power streetlights across the State.
The contractors, who gathered at the Government House in Awka, accused the State government of selectively paying a few contractors while leaving many others without any explanation.
They carried placards bearing messages like “Selective payment is injustice,” and expressed frustration over what they described as the government’s silence despite repeated appeals.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Hon. Nnaemeka Oraka revealed that out of 72 contractors, only seven have received payment. “We don’t understand the basis for the selective payment. We all executed approved jobs and followed due process. Yet, most of us have been completely sidelined,” he said.
Oraka also disclosed that the non-payment has led to severe hardship for many contractors, with some reportedly dying from stress and financial difficulties since 2022.
“We funded the diesel supplies from our own pockets, essentially lending money to the government. Today, some of us are indebted to banks, some have lost their homes, and our families are suffering,” he added.
The protest, which included both men and women, started at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square and ended at the New Government House. The contractors stressed that they had written multiple letters to relevant agencies but received no response, prompting the protest as a last resort.
Despite their grievances, the contractors many of whom are members of the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) pledged continued support for Governor Chukwuma Soludo and his re-election bid. However, they warned that unless full payments are made soon, they will continue to press their demands.
Responding to the protest, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, thanked the group for maintaining a peaceful approach and assured them their concerns were being taken seriously.
“His Excellency is aware of your situation and is committed to resolving it. Your case has progressed further since your last visit,” Ezeajughi said, promising a thorough review and amicable resolution.
He asked the contractors to nominate a few representatives for a follow-up meeting with government officials.
While the contractors welcomed the government’s assurances, they maintained that they would not back down until all outstanding payments are settled.
