From Iheanacho Nwosu, Abuja
THE embattled cousin of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Azibaola Robert, may be in for more troubles, as security agents last weekend took over the head office of his construction company, Kakarta Civil Engineering Limited, in Maitama, Abuja.
The development is coming weeks after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged him and his company,OnePlus,to court for allegedly receiving a $40 million security contract from the office of the former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki.
A visit to the head office of the construction company, which is located at the Kubwa Expressway, Asokoro Extension, Maitama, yesterday, showed some soldiers manning the entrance. It was learnt that the soldiers moved to the premises last Friday.
One of the soldiers told newsmen that “we are on order from the Chief of Army Staff to take over this place and not to allow anyone in or out of the premises.”
The soldier, who declined to give his name, further said: “It was one of our Generals who led the team of soldiers to take over this place but we do not know the reason for our being here.”
Although the Nigerian Army was yet to give an official explanation for the takeover of the firm, a military source disclosed that the move had no political undertone. According to the source, the Army was laying claim of ownership to the premises being used by the former president’s cousin.
The premises shares borders with Army’s Lungui Barracks. The source said the Army would not allow the presence of the company near its barracks, describing it as a breach of security.
It was also gathered that the use of blasting materials for construction by the firm close to the barracks was offensive to the Army authorities but they could not voice their aversion to the development while Jonathan was the president and commander-in-chief.
Spokesman of the construction firm, Mr. Austin Ekeinde, confirmed the development, explaining that the workers were directed to return home to avoid any confrontation with the armed soldiers.
“I can confirm to you that armed military men have suddenly taken over our site in Maitama and we have asked our workers to go back to their respective homes till further notice while we try to get clarification from the military on their provocative action.
“This action has led to huge losses as even asphalt we cooked overnight for laying this morning has been allowed to cake and waste,” he said.
Robert, who is the man- aging director of Kakatar, has been having a running battle with EFCC over one of his companies, One-Plus Holdings.