The Conference of Professionals in the Peoples Democratic Party (CP-PDP) has petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), demanding an investigation into the alleged N39 billion renovation of the International Conference Centre (ICC), Abuja, under the supervision of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike.
The group, at an emergency Governance Policy and Monitoring Review Roundtable held on Sunday in Abuja, described the renovation project—executed on an already functional facility—as “questionable” and a likely case of “Advanced Treasury Swindle (ATS).”
In a statement signed by its chairman, Obinna Nwachukeu, the CP-PDP said its team of engineers, architects, and procurement experts had thoroughly reviewed the renovation claims and found no justification for the sum quoted.
“As professionals, we find the attempt by the FCT Minister to justify such a colossal amount disturbing,” the statement read. “Despite widespread concerns and glaring global benchmarks that show signs of contract overpricing, the Minister has failed to provide clarity—resorting instead to dismissing critics for lacking ‘good taste.’”
The group demanded transparency from the FCT administration, calling for the release of the project’s full documentation, including:
- Invitation to Tender
- Contractor Bids
- Bill of Quantities
- Project Scope
- Due process and procurement approvals
CP-PDP noted with concern that the N39 billion reportedly spent on the ICC renovation is nearly four times the N8.3 billion earmarked for agriculture in the 2025 FCT budget—an allocation meant to cater to over 3 million residents.
“Failure to provide these details only strengthens the growing allegations of contract inflation, misappropriation of funds, and violation of public procurement laws under the current FCT leadership—especially since the removal of the FCT from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) oversight,” the statement continued.
The group further condemned the prioritisation of lavish infrastructure upgrades while critical sectors such as health, education, and security remain underfunded and neglected in the FCT.
“In a city grappling with failing hospitals, underfunded schools, and rising insecurity, how does spending N39 billion on a functioning conference centre reflect the needs of the people?” it asked.
The PDP Professionals also criticised the recent renaming of the ICC to Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, arguing that such a move “does not confer immunity or halt public scrutiny.”
“No amount of political rebranding will shield FCT officials from accountability. For CP-PDP, ‘good taste’ is not about showboating but about transparency, prioritisation, and service to the people,” the statement concluded.
Nzubechukwu Eze
