Minister of Works Dave Umahi has given contractors handling the Abuja-Lokoja road project 72 hours to fully mobilise to site and utilise funds already released by the Federal Government.

Speaking during an inspection of the project on Tuesday, Umahi warned that contractors who fail to deliver despite receiving government funds could face sanctions, including possible action by law enforcement agencies.

He expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of the Abuja-bound section of the road, saying more than 90 per cent of the stretch has been severely damaged and requires urgent intervention.

The minister also faulted some supervising engineers for poor oversight, vowing to remove ministry officials who fail to effectively monitor projects and hold contractors accountable.

Also speaking, Chairman of the House Committee on Works, Akin Alabi, said conditions on the project site did not reflect reports submitted to the ministry, while Senate Committee on Works Chairman, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, urged officials and funding agencies to ensure timely project execution.

Both lawmakers stressed the need for greater accountability to accelerate delivery of critical road infrastructure.