Tension As Protesting Contractors Block Finance Minister Over Alleged Debt Backlog
There was commotion at the entrance of the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja on Monday as protesting local contractors prevented the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, from accessing the ministry complex.
The protesters, operating under the banner of the All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN), blocked the ministry’s main gate in protest over outstanding debts allegedly owed to them by the federal government.
Eyewitnesses said the contractors arrived early and barricaded the entrance and chanting songs of solidarity and calling on the minister to settle the alleged debt arrears. They also insisted that government officials address their demands before normal activities could resume.
The situation escalated when Uzoka-Anite arrived at the premises and security operatives attempted to clear a pathway for her entry. The demonstrators resisted the move, leading to a tense standoff between protesters and security personnel.
During the scuffle, a gunshot was reportedly heard as security operatives attempted to disperse the crowd, causing panic in the area. It remains unclear if anyone was injured during the incident.
The showdown is a continuation of the series of protests last year, to demand the payment of all outstanding debts owed by the Federal Government.
According to the contractors, most of the executed and commissioned projects are yet to be paid for.
However, President Tinubu had, in December 2025, directed that a committee be set up to address the issues.
A similar committee set up by the Senate has also invited the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, to explain the circumstances surrounding the non-payment of the “debts”.
Hafsoh Isiaq is a graduate of Linguistics. An avid writer committed to creative, high-quality research and news reportage. She has considerable experience in writing and reporting across a variety of platforms including print and online.
