The Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, has called for fairness and due process in the handling of the contractor for the stalled Weija Children’s Hospital project, who is currently in the custody of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO).
Speaking to Channel One News, the MP said although he was not fully acquainted with the details surrounding the matter, he was concerned about the arrest and urged authorities to ensure that investigations are conducted in a fair and transparent manner.
Mr. Shaib cautioned against situations where changes in political administration negatively affect the continuity and completion of critical public infrastructure projects.
According to him, healthcare projects should rise above partisan considerations, stressing that the completion and operationalisation of the Weija Children’s Hospital remain a matter of great importance to residents of the Weija-Gbawe municipality and neighbouring communities.
He explained that his comments should not be interpreted as a defence of the contractor but rather as an appeal for the project to be completed for the benefit of the public.
“We should come to a consensus and find a way forward. If the contractor has committed any wrongdoing, the law should take its course, but we must also ensure that the project is completed because the people are waiting for this facility,” he stated.
The MP further appealed to the relevant authorities to engage with the contractor in a manner that would facilitate the completion and handover of the project while ensuring accountability for any breaches of the law.
Describing the situation as unfortunate, Mr. Shaib called for a change in the country’s approach to public projects, particularly during transitions in government, to prevent essential infrastructure from being delayed or abandoned.
The contractor for the Weija Children’s Hospital project remains in EOCO custody as investigations continue into matters surrounding the facility.
The 120-bed specialist hospital was initiated to improve access to paediatric healthcare services in the Weija-Gbawe Municipality but has remained unutilised for years despite reports that construction works had been completed.
