Delta Governor Invites Delta Opposition to Tour of State Projects
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has extended an invitation to opposition members to join him on a comprehensive tour of ongoing projects, allowing them to witness firsthand how his administration is utilizing state funds.
Following the inspection of the newly completed twin bridges at Ubu River along the Ughelli-Asaba Expressway, Governor Oborevwori criticized former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, asserting that his remarks reflect a misunderstanding of governmental operations.
The Governor declined to engage in a public debate with his detractors, inviting them instead to accompany him in examining the projects to better understand the effective management of public resources.
“I have no intention to engage in disputes with my critics,” he stated. “They argue that we have received substantial funds, yet we are allocating N70 billion for a flyover. How can a flyover cost N77 billion?”
He continued, “I urge them to come and see what we are accomplishing with these funds. Over the past 21 months, our administration has not borrowed any money, and there is no contractor in Delta State claiming that we owe them. Meanwhile, numerous projects are progressing smoothly.”
The Governor emphasized the transformation of infrastructure since his tenure began, noting the improved travel time to Ughelli, which now takes only one hour and twenty minutes due to the upgraded roads.
Upon the completion of the twin bridges, Governor Oborevwori expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress and affirmed that the entire road expansion would be inaugurated by the end of the year.
“I recalled visiting this site a few months ago for an inspection, and the changes are remarkable,” he shared. “It’s truly a ‘come and see’ situation, and I am pleased to report that the bridge construction has significantly improved the overall progress of the road, particularly for Sector C1, which cannot be completed without it.”
He expressed optimism about the project’s completion, stating, “By May 29, I believe we will be ready for inauguration. I commend CCECC for their commitment to quality work.”
During his address, Governor Oborevwori noted that he had advised contractors two months prior not to depend solely on the Irrevocable Standing Payment Order, emphasizing that such reliance would not accelerate the project’s completion.
“They were informed that if they complete their work promptly, they would receive their full payment,” he added, highlighting the urgency with which the contractors have been working recently.
The Governor elaborated on the road project, explaining, “This stretch from kilometer 92 to kilometer 117 is approximately 25 kilometers long, including the bridge. I am pleased to report that C2 is nearing completion; from point 117 at Kwale Junction to point 138.6, it spans around 22 kilometers. I am optimistic that by the end of the year, the entire 143-kilometer road project will be completed.”
At the Ofagbe Bridge along the Isoko Ring Road, Governor Oborevwori indicated that the state government would meet with the contractor to decide whether they would continue with the project.
Regarding the eight-unit four-bedroom duplex with attached boys’ quarters at the Commissioners’ quarters, the Governor explained that the initiative aims to provide housing for remaining members of the Executive Council who currently reside outside the quarters.
He confirmed that the project is 95 percent complete, increasing the total accommodations within the quarters to 30, and expects it to be ready for inauguration next month.
About the Author
