Pulse.ng : MD, Formal Act Legacy Ltd., Distances Self From Refund Demands on Contractors

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Formal Act Legacy Ltd., Dr. Bashir Ibrahim Bello, has disassociated himself and the organisation from an alleged move by former officials of the company to compel contractors to refund mobilisation funds already paid to them.

In a statement issued on Friday, Dr. Bello described as fraudulent and unauthorised the reported collaboration between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and two former officials— the erstwhile Director of Legal and former Director of Administration — to demand the return of mobilisation funds disbursed to contractors for ongoing projects.

Dr. Bello, who also serves as the African Sub-Regional Coordinator of the United Charity Foundation (UCF) – FICOD, said he neither approved nor instructed any person or group to issue letters or make demands on his behalf regarding project funds.

“At no time did I authorise anyone to sign letters in my name, demand refunds from contractors, or mandate the return of funds already released for project execution,” he stated.

He emphasised that all mobilisation funds must remain with the contractors, adding that all contractual agreements between Formal Act Legacy Ltd./United Charity Foundation (UCF) – FICOD and the concerned contractors remain valid and binding.

Dr. Bello warned contractors against releasing any money or signing documents purportedly issued by the company without his direct and verifiable approval.

“Under no circumstance should any contractor give money to anyone or sign any letter allegedly coming from Formal Act Legacy without my authorisation,” he cautioned.
He further advised contractors contacted by the EFCC over such matters not to refund any funds but to seek legal redress.

Dr. Bello urged contractors and the general public to disregard any such demands, stressing that those involved are acting without permission and in a manner considered fraudulent.