OREROKPE/Nigeria: Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, issued a stern warning to contractors on Thursday, emphasizing that the state government would not tolerate subpar work on road projects. During an inspection of projects in Okpe and Ethiope East Local Government Areas of the state, Aniagwu emphasized the Governor’s “zero tolerance for poorly executed projects” and urged engineers to step up their supervision efforts.
The projects under scrutiny encompassed a range of road infrastructure initiatives, including the reconstruction and widening of Jeddo – Ughoton road with a spur to Ugbokodo, the rehabilitation of failed sections of Orerokpe – Okuloho – Oviri road in Okpe Local Government Area, and other projects such as the construction of Oviorie – Ogorivwo-Ovu – Okuedafe – Eku Road Phase 1, Okpe and Agbomiyerin Roads in Kokori, Samagidi – Ediagbo village road, and the construction of Itama Road Umeghe – Abraka in Ethiope East Local Government Area of the State.
Aniagwu, accompanied by Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, urged contractors to uphold high standards in their work, assuring them of prompt payments for their services. He stressed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to quality, stating, “Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has made it very clear that he has zero tolerance for poorly executed jobs, and for jobs that are not properly done, we are not going to certify, and even if it is corruptly certified, we will not pay.”
The Commissioner underlined the importance of delivering value to Delta State residents, stating that the funds allocated for these road projects belong to the people of Delta State. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made in several of the projects while noting areas where improvements were required to meet specified standards.
Aniagwu also emphasized the need for engineers to stand firm and insist on quality work, irrespective of contractors’ connections or affiliations with the government. He stressed that Governor Oborevwori would not tolerate substandard work, regardless of contractors’ relationships with the government.
During the inspection, the Commissioner also recognized the challenges contractors face concerning water channeling and committed to addressing these issues. Aniagwu encouraged citizen participation in project monitoring and announced the establishment of a call center within the Ministry for reporting irregularities or concerns.
He expressed gratitude to the Deputy Speaker for joining him in inspecting roads in Ethiope East and highlighted the collaborative approach between the legislative and executive branches under Governor Oborevwori’s leadership. Aniagwu commended community youths for their support in ensuring proper project execution and encouraged stakeholders across the state to partner with the government to create an enabling environment for development.
Rt. Hon. Akpowowo, echoing Aniagwu’s sentiments, urged citizens to take ownership of projects in their areas to ensure their longevity and success. He praised Aniagwu for his proactive approach to project oversight and correction when necessary, emphasizing that it is the way forward for ensuring high-quality infrastructure in the state.
