A ₦777.83 million federal project meant to light up rural communities in Akwa Ibom State has come under intense scrutiny after an investigation revealed that no work has been done more than a year after payment was made.
Records show that the sum was paid on 12 December 2024 to Levard Agro Allied Industries for the “emergency construction of solar streetlights” in Ikot Afanga Nkana, Ikot Ubeng, Ntak Inyang and Ikot Abia, with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security listed as the implementing agency.
However, 13 months later, findings in Ntak Inyang, Itam in Itu Local Government Area, indicate that the project is yet to commence.
Residents told our reporter they have not seen any signs of mobilisation, installation plans or contractor presence in the area. Many said they were unaware that such a project even existed.
The situation has raised serious concerns, particularly because Ntak Inyang is a bustling stone trading hub where commercial activities often extend into the night. The absence of solar streetlights, residents say, has left traders and commuters exposed to theft, insecurity and avoidable accidents.
“We still operate in darkness. Nobody has come here for any project,” a community member told Uptown Press.
Beyond the apparent non-implementation, questions are also being raised over the role of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in executing a solar streetlight project — a mandate, locals say appears misaligned with its core responsibilities.
Analysts warn that such overlaps in project execution can weaken oversight, create accountability gaps and increase the risk of abandoned or unexecuted projects.
Stakeholders insist that public funds must translate into visible public value, stressing that the situation demands urgent attention.
They have called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission to investigate the payment, verify the status of the project and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
As pressure mounts, residents say they are waiting for answers — and for the long-promised lights that have yet to shine.
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