A former National Treasurer of the Labour Party, Oluchi Oparah, has demanded a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the failed $460 million Abuja Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) project, describing it as a national security disaster that has deepened insecurity across the Federal Capital Territory.
In a statement obtained by Chronicle Reporters on Saturday, Oparah condemned what she called the “reckless attitude and shameless irresponsibility” of those who handled the project, noting that Abuja residents continue to suffer the consequences of a system that failed to deliver critical security infrastructure.
According to her, the abandonment of the multi-million-dollar surveillance project has contributed significantly to the escalation of violent crimes in the FCT, including terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.
“It is utterly heartbreaking that such a monumental security investment was allegedly squandered,” she said. “Had this project been executed diligently, Nigeria—especially the FCT—would not be grappling with this devastating level of insecurity today.”
Oparah welcomed the House of Representatives’ recent move to set up an ad hoc committee to investigate the scandal but urged lawmakers to avoid the pattern of inconclusive, politically influenced probes.
“Nigerians are watching. We expect fairness, transparency, and truth—not another round of empty investigations that lead nowhere,” she noted.
She outlined several actions she believes the committee must prioritize, including a forensic audit of the entire project, public disclosure of all financial and contractual details, and the recovery of mismanaged or diverted funds. Oparah also insisted that contractors who failed to deliver must refund the full $460 million.
The former party treasurer warned that the failed project sends a damaging message to potential investors, painting Nigeria as a country where insecurity and official impunity threaten genuine development.
Oparah further urged the current administration to support a probe free from political interference.
“This is not the time for political protection or selective justice,” she stressed. “Appropriate sanctions must be applied regardless of status.”
Condemning what she described as Nigeria’s entrenched culture of corruption, she called for a stronger commitment to accountability and national security.
“It is time for truth. It is time for justice. It is time to reclaim our security and restore public trust,” she declared.
The House of Representatives had earlier resolved to investigate the $460 million Chinese loan tied to the CCTV project following a motion of urgent national importance moved by Hon. Amobi Ogah during Wednesday’s plenary.