The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has formally requested the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Gallet Nigeria Limited and Dredging Atlantic for their failure to execute shoreline protection contracts in Ayetoro, Ondo State. This call follows alarming reports of environmental degradation and socio-economic crises affecting local residents due to the abandoned projects.
In a petition addressed to EFCC Chairman Olanipekun Olukoyede, HEDA’s Executive Secretary Sulaimon Arigbabu highlighted the severe impact of these non-executed contracts, which were originally awarded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). The first contract, valued at ₦2.5 billion in 2004, was terminated after four years of inactivity. It was subsequently re-awarded in 2009 for ₦6.5 billion, yet remains incomplete.
"Corruption has deprived the Ayetoro community of essential resources while exacerbating environmental challenges," stated Arigbabu. HEDA urges the EFCC to hold accountable those responsible for misappropriating funds and failing to protect vulnerable coastal communities.