Police Arrest Government Appointee In Cross River For N135 Million Contract Scam

By CrossRiverWatch Admin

An unknown appointee of the Cross River State Government is currently in police custody for allegedly attempting to defraud unsuspecting citizens with fake contract documents valued at NGN135 million a statement from the state’s universal basic education board (CRSUBEB) says.

The statement signed by the executive chairman, Dr. Stephen Odey described the act as “embarrassing” and cautioned unsuspecting members of the public against fraudsters who demand for money as contract fee.

The statement read: “The Cross river State Universal Basic Education Board wishes to inform the public that fraudulent elements are engaging in using the Board’s name in perpetrating fraud against unsuspecting members of the public.

“This is coming on the heels of an uncovered contract scam being perpetrated by a government appointee.

“The suspect was caught while trying to defraud his victim by presenting him with four (4) forged Award Letters for execution of projects amounting to one hundred and thirty-five million naira (NGN135, 000,000).

“This unwholesome act exhibited by a government official is considered most embarrassing to the state. The Executive Chairman has promised to unveil the culprit after briefing His Excellency, the Governor (Sen. Prof. Ben Ayade).

“Meanwhile the culprit has been handed over to the police for further investigation.

“Documents recovered from him include:
1. 4 contract award letters
2. Bill of quantities for the fake jobs
3. Technical drawings and other documents.

“Members of the public are therefore warned/advised to embark on proper verification in all matters within and outside SUBEB before engaging in any business.

“The Board equally reminds members of the public that it does not charge any fee in the discharge of any of its functions, be it employment, promotion or any contractual obligation.”

It will be recalled that following the disbursement of over NGN1 billion in counterpart funding by the state government, the CRSUBEB was besieged with allies, cronies and friends of those said to wield maximum influence in the present administration for contracts.

And, Dr. Odey is said to have even drawn the attention of those seeking for favors when he said that there is about NGN7 billion for the board to access from the Universal Basic Education funds.