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Controversy has erupted over the Benue State Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) as it faces accusations of failing to meet its contractual obligations to operators of the Spiro Electric Bike Hire Purchase Scheme.
In a detailed statement by Sam Agwa, it was alleged that available facts show Benue RAAMP, under the leadership of Stephen Numbeve, is defaulting in its responsibilities to the scheme operators. A letter from Benue RAAMP acknowledging difficulties faced by operators, particularly with the charging of batteries for smooth operation of the electric bikes, was attached as evidence.
The statement argued that the challenges with battery charging lie squarely with RAAMP and not with the operators of the scheme. It noted that the persistence of this fault is likely to affect the capacity of the operators to meet their repayment obligations under the loan agreement.
“Put simply, Benue RAAMP is in breach of its contractual obligations to the operators and may not be in a position to demand strict performance from the same operators on their part,” the statement read.
The writer questioned the basis for accusing the operators of “audacity in default of payment,” wondering why such blame is being placed on them when RAAMP itself has admitted to operational shortcomings that hinder the smooth running of the scheme.
The development has raised concerns about the management and sustainability of the electric bike scheme in Benue State, which was introduced to improve rural mobility and agricultural marketing. Stakeholders are now calling for urgent resolution of the battery charging issues to prevent further disruption and ensure that operators are not unfairly penalised for challenges beyond their control.
