By Elohor Foghola
WARRI/Nigeria: The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Festus Ochonogor, alongside the Executive Director of Projects, Olorogun Taleb Tebite, conducted an inspection tour of canal excavation work in Uvwie and Warri Local Government Areas of Delta State.
The tour aimed to assess the progress of the Commission’s efforts in clearing clogged drainages in the region, considering the impact of floods on communities.
Chief Ochonogor emphasized that it was the Commission’s duty to monitor and clean drainages within its jurisdiction, highlighting the devastating effects of floods on communities.
He noted that significant progress had been made in other areas, leading to the commissioning of the maintenance work to desilt drains and ensure the free flow of water to prevent flooding.
Praising the operational strategies employed, Chief Ochonogor explained that after completing work on smaller drains, the debris would be emptied into the canals, which were also being cleaned to prevent debris from returning. He expressed concern about the deteriorating road to Ogbe layout, off Jakpa road area, which had been split in two, promising repairs to restore access for residents.
The MD reiterated that the projects were in line with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s vision to transform Warri, emphasizing the encouragement received from the Governor to contribute to enhancing the city’s appearance.
He urged residents to cultivate a maintenance culture, avoid dumping refuse in canals, and refrain from damaging government properties, reminding them that the drains were built to keep the environment clean.
Bar. Patrick Fregene, representing the landlords of Ogbe layout, expressed gratitude to the State government and DESOPADEC for their intervention, highlighting the immense difficulties faced by residents and some relocation due to the hardships.
