Delta Assembly Decries LGs’ Failure To Implement Procurement Law
THE Delta State House of Assembly (DTHA) has expressed strong displeasure over the failure of local government councils across the state to implement the Delta State Public Procurement Law, 2020.
The concern was raised on Monday in Asaba during an interface between the Assembly’s Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and the leadership of the Delta State Public Procurement Commission.
Chairman of the committee and member representing Ukwuani Constituency, Hon. Chukwudi Dafe, described the development as “worrisome” and a clear violation of an existing state law. He warned that ignorance of the law would not shield any council from sanctions.
“Any local government council that disregards this law will face the consequences,” Dafe stated, stressing that adherence to the procurement law was vital for transparency and accountability in governance.
He further charged the Procurement Commission to intensify sensitization of local councils on the need to operationalize the law, noting that full compliance would strengthen the MORE Agenda of Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
Earlier, the Commission’s Director-General, Mr. Edwin Abraka, admitted that since the law was enacted in 2020, it had never been operational at the local government level. He disclosed that Governor Oborevwori had directed the Commission to design a plan for its enforcement in councils and to consult key stakeholders in the process.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Commission, Mr. David Igbodo, emphasized that the Assembly’s input was critical to the reforms, expressing optimism that joint efforts would ensure procurement reforms deliver prosperity to people at the grassroots.
“The purpose of our visit today is to engage this committee and harvest your views. Working with the Governor and the Assembly, we believe procurement reforms under the Renewed Hope for More Agenda will strengthen governance and benefit communities across Delta State,” Abraka said.
