WARRI/Nigeria: In a decisive move to ensure public safety and facilitate efficient water flow, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has issued an order to demolish all buildings constructed along waterways in the state. The directive came during the Governor’s inspection tour of the Warri/Effurun Storm Water Control Projects in Warri South and Uvwie Local Government Areas.
Governor Oborevwori emphasized that building structures on waterways is prohibited worldwide and stressed the need for unobstructed natural water flow. To execute this directive, the Ministries of Housing, Works, and Lands have been instructed to identify and demolish all such buildings, thereby allowing for the free movement of water along these channels.
During the inspection of Phase I and Phase II of the stormwater drainage project, which is being handled by CCECC, Governor Oborevwori acknowledged the progress made by the construction firm. However, he highlighted the presence of buildings obstructing the project’s advancement and impeding the construction work. Consequently, the State Government pledged to demolish all buildings on waterways in both phases to facilitate the seamless completion of the project.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the construction firm, the Governor disclosed that certain areas causing traffic congestion require 21 days for rectification, while another specific area necessitates approximately 19 days for completion. With regards to Phase I of the project, Governor Oborevwori directed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Works to collaborate with the Ministry of Lands to address the issue of buildings on waterways and ensure their removal, thereby granting unimpeded access to the construction firm.
The Governor also expressed his dissatisfaction with the ongoing work at the Warri City Stadium and announced his intention to review the contract to ensure the project’s timely and high-quality delivery. He pledged to reassess areas where discrepancies were identified and emphasized the importance of achieving the best outcome for the stadium, which holds significance for the city of Warri.
Addressing concerns at Otovwodo Junction, Ughelli, Governor Oborevwori called for the relocation of the Delta Appreciate Park and the traders operating along the road. He expressed his disapproval of the motor park’s presence at the junction and highlighted the risks associated with trading on the express road. The Governor instructed the Council Chairman to oversee the relocation of the motor park and urged the traders to move away from the road. Alternative arrangements have been made for the traders, and the Ministry of Works has been tasked with developing a proposal to provide an access road to the new market site.
During his visit to the Isheagu-Ewulu Road and bridge in Aniocha South Local Government Area, Governor Oborevwori expressed his satisfaction with the progress made by the contractor. He assured the public that the project would be ready for inauguration by September, as planned. The construction of the new bridge on this route is particularly crucial as it serves as a vital link between the two communities, replacing the collapsed old bridge and providing essential transportation infrastructure.
