CSOs Threaten Nationwide Protest Over Unpaid Contractors in 2024 Budget

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), under the Concerned Nigeria People’s Network, have called on the Federal Government to urgently address the non-payment of contractors for completed 2024 projects. In a statement issued on Monday and signed by Comrade Alao Bamisile and Abubakar Tijani, the CSOs warned of immediate mass protests across the country if the issue is not resolved. The CSOs emphasized that the government’s failure to settle outstanding payments has severely affected contractors’ livelihoods, leading to financial hardship, employee layoffs, and job losses. They further warned that the construction sector, a key contributor to Nigeria’s GDP, is on the verge of collapse due to the ongoing non-payment. The statement detailed the ripple effect on various sectors as businesses struggle with unpaid debts, damaging the economy. It also highlighted the declining investor confidence and the erosion of fiscal stability, which exacerbates Nigeria’s financial challenges. “The non-payment is a grave injustice that is putting livelihoods and the economy at risk. If this situation persists, we will mobilize Nigerians from all sectors to demand accountability,” the CSOs declared. They called on President Tinubu to prioritize the immediate payment of contractors and establish a transparent and efficient payment system to prevent future delays. With plans for a nationwide protest already underway, the CSOs made it clear that they will not rest until their demands are met and contractors are compensated for their work.