Oborevwori’s Road Projects Transform Okwagbe as Commissioner Izeze Warns Against Substandard Work

Oborevwori’s Road Projects Transform Okwagbe as Commissioner Izeze Warns Against Substandard Work

The ongoing construction of internal roads in Okwagbe Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area, has been described as a major milestone in the infrastructural development of the area, with the Delta State Government reaffirming its commitment to quality delivery.

The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Reuben Izeze, said the road projects represent the first-ever provision of internal road infrastructure in Okwagbe since the community was established.

Speaking during an inspection of the projects, Izeze described the intervention by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as historic, noting that Okwagbe—one of the largest communities in Urhobo land—had remained without internal roads for decades despite its economic and historical significance.

According to him, Okwagbe hosts one of the largest weekly markets in Urhobo land and has long served as a major commercial hub dating back to the colonial era, when it functioned as a thriving trading centre through a John Holt anchorage linked to the Forcados River and the Atlantic Ocean.

“Okwagbe is one of the largest communities in Urhobo land and hosts one of the biggest markets in the region. Given its historical importance, the market had the potential to grow into an international commercial hub,” he said.

Izeze lamented that successive administrations failed to provide internal road infrastructure for the community until the present administration took decisive action.

“The two roads currently under construction are the first internal road projects in Okwagbe since its inception. This demonstrates the commitment, vision, and responsiveness of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the development and welfare of the people,” he stated.

The commissioner explained that the inspection was aimed at assessing both the pace and quality of work. While commending progress made so far, he disclosed that certain deficiencies had been identified and contractors had been directed to rectify them without delay.

“We appreciate the level of progress recorded. However, some shortcomings have been observed, and clear directives have been issued to ensure full compliance with approved specifications, dimensions, and standards,” he said.

Izeze also cautioned contractors handling government projects, particularly indigenous firms benefiting from the administration’s deliberate policy of promoting local participation in infrastructure delivery.

He said the Oborevwori administration remains committed to empowering local contractors as part of efforts to stimulate the economy, create jobs, and ensure government spending directly benefits residents of the state.

“His Excellency is focused on sustaining the local economy and ensuring citizens feel the direct impact of governance. That is why indigenous contractors are being intentionally engaged,” he said.

The commissioner, however, warned that the confidence reposed in contractors must not be abused, stressing that substandard work would not be tolerated under any circumstance.

He noted that the issues observed during the inspection were being addressed with the assumption that the company’s principal officers might not have been fully aware of developments at the project site.

“This visit provides an opportunity for immediate corrective action. We expect all identified issues to be resolved promptly,” he stated.

Izeze issued a stern warning that repeated cases of poor execution would attract severe sanctions, including contract termination, refund of government payments, and possible prosecution.

“If similar issues are observed during subsequent inspections, the contract will be terminated and the contractor will refund all monies paid by the Delta State Government. Where necessary, both the company and its principal officers will face prosecution,” he warned.

He further emphasized that the Bills of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME) remain the benchmark for all government projects, insisting that every item contained in contract documents must be fully executed.

“The BEME remains our guiding framework. Every item specified must be delivered because every kobo spent by the Delta State Government belongs to the people,” he said.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and value for money, Izeze stressed that no contractor would be allowed to compromise project quality.

“Contractors must understand that cutting corners is no longer acceptable. Any recurrence will lead to disqualification from future contracts with the Delta State Government. Under this administration, accountability is non-negotiable, and the interest of the people remains paramount,” he added.