Politics
Reps reopen probe into Jonathan’s failed $460m CCTV project
DDM News

(DDM) – The House of Representatives has launched a fresh investigation into the controversial $460 million Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) project initiated under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, which remains uncompleted more than a decade after funds were secured.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the renewed inquiry followed a motion of urgent national importance sponsored by Hon. Amobi Ogah, who represents Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State.
Ogah told lawmakers that the project, intended to boost national security and surveillance across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has become a failed venture despite the massive public funds committed to it.
He noted that insecurity in Abuja, including a rise in kidnappings, robberies, and other violent crimes, makes it imperative to revisit what he described as “a failed national security investment.”
According to him, the Jonathan administration in 2010 approved the installation of CCTV cameras across strategic locations in the capital city to enhance security monitoring and emergency response.
He explained that then-Finance Minister Dr. Olusegun Aganga led a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Beijing, China, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with ZTE Communications, a Chinese technology firm awarded the contract for the CCTV installation.
Ogah further disclosed that the project was financed through a $460 million loan from the China-EXIM Bank, taken from a $600 million soft credit facility with a ten-year grace period before repayment commenced.
Despite the financial commitment, Ogah lamented that there is no visible trace of the CCTV infrastructure across Abuja, and the federal government continues to service the debt on a project that has yielded no security benefit.
“The House is concerned that Nigeria is already repaying the loan for a non-functional CCTV project undertaken by a Chinese contractor, leaving the country in a lose-lose situation,” he said.
Lawmakers across party lines supported the motion, with several members demanding accountability for what they described as one of Nigeria’s most glaring cases of mismanaged foreign loans.
Hon. Billy Osawaru from Edo State emphasised the need for stricter legislative oversight, warning that failure to probe such wasteful projects undermines public trust in government.
“The House must carry out serious oversight in the interest of Nigerians,” Osawaru stated. “We must discourage a culture of impunity and financial recklessness.”
Hon. Ahmad Jaha, representing Gwoza/Damboa/Chibok Federal Constituency of Borno State, called for a full-scale investigation into how the funds were spent, questioning why the security cameras are non-existent despite the huge loan.
“A lot of money was spent to procure CCTVs, but they are nowhere to be found,” Jaha lamented.
DDM recalls that this is not the first time the National Assembly is probing the controversial project. In 2019, the 9th House of Representatives queried the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) over the same issue, but the investigation yielded no conclusive findings.
In May 2023, a Federal High Court in Abuja ordered the Federal Government to release detailed information on how the $460 million was utilised, following a lawsuit filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.
The court’s ruling directed the Ministry of Finance, the Federal Ministry of Interior, and the ONSA to provide a comprehensive account of the project’s implementation, expenditure, and status, an order that, to date, remains largely unfulfilled.
The CCTV project, first conceived as part of a national security upgrade after a wave of bombings in Abuja between 2009 and 2011, was touted as a major technological step toward crime prevention.
It was expected to cover 25 key areas of the city, including the Central Business District, the airport road corridor, and major government facilities.
However, more than ten years later, no operational cameras exist, and reports indicate that even the installed structures have fallen into disrepair or were never activated.
Critics argue that the project symbolises Nigeria’s chronic governance failure, where ambitious public security projects are launched with fanfare but end in debt, neglect, and impunity.
As the House resumes its investigation, analysts told DDM that this renewed inquiry will test the current administration’s political will to hold past and present officials accountable for abandoned multi-million-dollar contracts that continue to burden Nigeria’s economy.
(DDM) – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced the final preparations for the official unveiling of its Delta State Coalition Vehicle.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) noted that the historic event is scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the prestigious Delta State Government House Square in Asaba, the state capital.
Hon. Dr. Kenneth C. Gbandi, chairman of the Unveiling Committee, confirmed the date while expressing sincere gratitude to party supporters, grassroots leaders, and donors who have contributed to the coalition’s progress across the state.
He noted that the unwavering commitment of members, whether from hospital beds, marketplaces, or rural communities, reflects the unity and resilience that continue to drive ADC’s movement for credible leadership in Delta State.
The unveiling ceremony is expected to feature national party officers, coalition partners, political stalwarts, and special guests, including Distinguished Senator David Mark, who is set to lead the formal proceedings.
Organisers highlighted that the event marks a pivotal moment in ADC’s strategic plans to strengthen grassroots mobilisation, deepen political awareness, and promote democratic renewal across all local government areas of Delta State.
The Delta State Coalition Vehicle, organisers say, is more than a symbolic asset; it is a mobile hub for community engagement, political education, and advocacy for good governance.
Supporters and well-wishers have been encouraged to attend in large numbers to witness this historic milestone and show solidarity with the party’s vision.
Preparations are reportedly in their final stages, including detailed logistical arrangements, security measures, media coverage coordination, and health protocols to ensure a safe and seamless event.
Party leaders expressed optimism that the ceremony will galvanise grassroots support, inspire local leaders, and energise members ahead of upcoming political campaigns and civic engagement activities throughout Delta State.
ADC officials also confirmed plans to use the unveiling as an opportunity to announce future coalition initiatives, partnerships with civil society organisations, and programs aimed at youth empowerment, women participation, and community development.
(DDM) — Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his predecessor, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, have met for the first time since the highly contested 2023 gubernatorial election, marking a significant moment in Kano’s tense political atmosphere.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the two political figures came face-to-face on Tuesday at a public function in Abuja, where they exchanged brief pleasantries amid visible curiosity from attendees.
Their meeting comes months after a prolonged legal battle that saw the Supreme Court uphold Yusuf’s victory, ending a heated political rivalry that defined Kano’s political space in 2023.
Witnesses told DDM that both men maintained composure throughout the encounter, though the brief interaction drew attention from journalists and political observers eager to interpret the symbolism of their reunion.
Political analysts say the meeting could signal the beginning of a cautious reconciliation between the ruling New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano, two blocs that have fiercely competed for influence in the state.
Governor Yusuf has repeatedly accused Ganduje’s administration of financial mismanagement and abuse of office, while Ganduje and his allies have described the allegations as politically motivated vendettas.
According to DDM findings, the event where they met was part of a national stakeholders’ gathering, which brought together current and former leaders to discuss governance reforms and intergovernmental collaboration.
Observers suggest that while no formal peace talks were confirmed, the handshake between Yusuf and Ganduje may open channels for dialogue, especially as both leaders face internal political pressures ahead of the 2027 elections.
DELTA – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) is set to unveil its new Coalition Vehicle in Delta State this weekend.
Delta State, located in the southern region of Nigeria, is a fascinating and culturally rich area known for its diverse ethnic composition, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant economic activities.
It is bordered by Edo State to the north, Anambra State to the east, and the Bight of Benin to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.
This state is renowned for its oil and gas reserves, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s overall revenue.
The capital city, Asaba, serves as the political and administrative hub, while Warri stands out as the commercial nerve center of the state.
Delta State is home to various ethnic groups, including the Urhobo, Isoko, Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Anioma people, each bringing their unique cultural heritage, traditions, and festivals to the vibrant tapestry of the region.
Visitors to Delta State can experience a blend of urban and rural life, enjoy traditional music, art, and delicious cuisine, while also engaging in exciting outdoor activities like exploring the inner riverine areas filled with stunning wildlife and lush greenery.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) notes that the event is expected to draw political leaders, stakeholders, and supporters from across Nigeria.
The launch aims to unite reform-minded leaders, youth movements, and grassroots organizations under one platform for inclusive governance and participatory democracy.
Organizers confirmed that several top national figures, including former governors, party chieftains, and youth leaders, will be present at the official unveiling.
The event is being described as a pivotal moment for ADC, signaling the party’s intention to consolidate support ahead of future elections.
The coalition is designed to serve as a people-driven force, providing a political vehicle for collaboration among reformist groups and leaders nationwide.
ADC’s call to action, themed “A–D–C Arise”, has gained traction on social media, trending across multiple platforms in anticipation of the weekend event.
Supporters are encouraged to participate both physically in Delta State and digitally, using hashtags #CoalitionVehicle and #ADCArise to show solidarity.
Political analysts say the unveiling could strengthen the party’s visibility and attract alliances with smaller parties and civil society organizations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
ADC leadership has emphasized that the coalition is not limited to party loyalists but is open to all reform-oriented Nigerians committed to democratic principles.
The party has also highlighted that the event will feature interactive sessions, discussions on governance reforms, and strategies to mobilize youth engagement in politics.
Observers expect that the Delta launch will serve as a blueprint for similar coalition-building exercises in other states, amplifying ADC’s national footprint.
The ADC leadership reiterated that the Coalition Vehicle is a platform for collaboration, dialogue, and actionable political engagement, aiming to address pressing issues affecting Nigerians at the grassroots level.
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