The Ad hoc Committee of the House of Representatives of Nigeria has directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to suspend further funding for the ongoing investigation into the $460 million Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) project in the Federal Capital Territory.
The contract, awarded to ZTE Corporation, is under scrutiny amid concerns over alleged inconsistencies, lack of transparency, and unclear information regarding the project’s execution and current operational status.
Lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with responses provided by ZTE officials, particularly on the scope of the project, deployment locations, and whether the surveillance system is still functional.
The committee also ordered the company to return with comprehensive and verifiable documentation, including a detailed inventory of all equipment supplied and installed, exact project locations across Nigeria, and full details of 456 Nigerians reportedly trained to operate and maintain the system.
Chairman of the panel, Donald Ojogo, said the investigation is intended to clarify facts rather than target individuals or organisations.
“This is a constructive engagement, not an attempt to witch-hunt anyone. Nigerians deserve clear answers,” Ojogo said, urging ZTE to provide full documentation in line with submissions already before the committee.
During the hearing, ZTE representative Irene Momoh stated that the company supplied and installed CCTV infrastructure in Abuja and Lagos between 2011 and 2012.
However, she admitted uncertainty about the current operational status of the surveillance system, raising further questions from lawmakers about maintenance, sustainability, and accountability.
The committee’s directive for the CBN to halt further funding is expected to remain in place pending the outcome of the investigation.
The probe forms part of broader legislative oversight efforts aimed at reviewing major federal infrastructure projects and ensuring public funds are properly accounted for.
