By JKNewsMedia
OPERATIONS HAVE stalled across several high-profile construction sites in Rivers State as Julius Berger Nigeria PLC begins pulling out its workforce due to delayed payments from the state government.
The withdrawal affects projects critical to the state’s infrastructure and development, including the landmark Port Harcourt Ring Road and Kalabari Road initiatives.
The construction giant reportedly halted activities following the state government’s inability to meet its periodical cost obligations, despite receiving regular federal allocations and significant internally generated revenue.
A statement issued noted that insiders cited non-responsiveness from aides to the state’s sole administrator, with no firm commitments offered for the outstanding payments.
Across the impacted sites, including the Emohua section of the Buguma-Degema Road and key points on the Ring Road, activity has dropped to near silence.
Where once 800 workers were engaged at the Port Harcourt Ring Road project site, fewer than 300 were seen last Thursday.
Insider sources within the company also confirmed many workers had been placed on standby, with further staff reductions imminent if payment delays persist beyond June.
One affected worker revealed that roughly 60 percent of the Ring Road project and 30 percent of the Emohua works had been completed.
The order to “stand by” pending financial resolution has left workers and communities anxious, with fears that mass demobilisation could spark widespread unemployment, restiveness, and a spike in crime.
In 2023, the Rivers State Government entered a ₦195 billion contract with Julius Berger for the Port Harcourt Ring Road to link five local government areas.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara had championed the deal, expressing confidence in the company’s track record and committing 30 percent upfront payment for the Kalabari Road project.
However, current fiscal strain has brought those commitments into question.
On-site checks over the weekend, findings revealed minimal or no ongoing activity, especially at high-profile project locations.
However, the company noted that its gradual pullout not only jeopardises infrastructure timelines but also risks destabilising local economies dependent on these projects.
As of press time, no official comment had been received from Julius Berger’s regional office.
