Caleb Mutfwang
By Jonathan Katungo, Jos
A major housing initiative by the Plateau State Government aimed at delivering 2,000 units for workers under the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has stalled nearly a year after its flag-off, raising concerns over delays, funding issues, and administrative bottlenecks.
The project, initiated under the administration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, was designed to address housing shortages in Bassa Local Government Area and provide affordable accommodation for workers. However, construction has yet to commence, despite earlier expectations of swift progress.
Investigations suggest that a financial dispute involving key stakeholders may have contributed to the delay. According to a source familiar with the arrangement, contractor David Sabo Kente, chairman of DSK Group, reportedly advanced ₦100 million to Architect Molkat Mutfwang, the governor’s elder brother, with an agreement to repay ₦150 million within six months.
The source indicated that the funds were tied to smaller project engagements, including a contract at the Federal University of Education, Pankshin, where repayment was expected upon completion. However, the arrangement reportedly led to a breakdown in trust when repayment did not materialize, leaving the financial issue unresolved.
Efforts to mediate the dispute, including interventions involving members of the governor’s family, have so far yielded limited success, according to sources. The lingering disagreement has been described as one of the factors affecting progress on the housing project.
In addition, previous contractors have reportedly raised concerns with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over funds expended on the project, pointing to wider concerns about financial oversight and project management.
Responding to the situation, Kente said multiple factors have delayed the project beyond the alleged financial dispute. He cited the absence of key approvals, including a Certificate of Occupancy in the name of the NLC, as well as the lack of approved building plans, as major obstacles.
He also pointed to security concerns at the project site, noting that repeated requests for police protection to secure personnel and equipment were not granted. According to him, these challenges, along with rising construction costs and a history of failed contractors on the project, have made it difficult to commence work.
At least 28 contractors had previously handled the project without success before DSK Group’s engagement, Kente added, describing the situation as evidence of deeper systemic challenges rather than negligence.
Meanwhile, Architect Molkat Mutfwang has denied allegations linking the funds to a personal loan or misconduct. He stated that the ₦150 million in question was part of broader collaborative engagements tied to housing development projects across multiple states, rather than a private transaction.
He further questioned the characterization of the funds as a loan, noting that the nature of the arrangement has been misrepresented. Mutfwang added that he is prepared to provide documentation to clarify the circumstances and address the allegations when given the opportunity.
As investigations continue, the stalled housing project has sparked public debate, with stakeholders calling for transparency, accountability, and a swift resolution to ensure the long-delayed project is finally delivered.