By Erewunmi Peace

Tension erupted at the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja on Monday after protesting contractors blocked the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, from accessing the ministry premises, with a gunshot reportedly heard during the confrontation.

The protesters, identified as members of the All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN), gathered at the ministry entrance to demand payment of outstanding debts allegedly owed to them by the Federal Government for completed projects.

Eyewitnesses said the situation escalated when security operatives attempted to clear the protesters to allow the minister enter the building. In the ensuing struggle, a gunshot was heard, causing panic and momentary chaos around the ministry gate.

Although no casualty was immediately reported, the sound of the gunshot heightened tension as security personnel dispersed the crowd to restore order.

The protesting contractors accused the government of failing to honour repeated promises to settle unpaid contract sums, claiming that the delays have crippled their businesses and livelihoods.

The incident comes amid ongoing concerns over unpaid federal contracts, despite assurances from the government that mechanisms are being put in place to verify and settle genuine claims.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Ministry of Finance nor security agencies had issued an official statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the gunshot.