By Sunday Apah
The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, emphasized that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration is dedicated to ensuring equitable development throughout all regions of the state, countering claims that Udu Local Government Area has been neglected.
During a recent inspection of road construction projects in Udu, particularly the Bezi Road and drainage system connecting Aladja to Ogbe-Ijoh, the headquarters of Warri South West Local Government Area, Izeze highlighted the government’s commitment to inclusive infrastructure development.
“We are here to evaluate the progress of this important road project. The original design did not account for the area’s significant water flow,” he explained. “Upon realizing the shortcomings of the initial drainage plan, the government promptly approved the installation of an additional 465 meters of drains to redirect water to a nearby natural canal along the Ogbe-Ijoh–Aladja route.”
While Izeze acknowledged that some progress has been made, he expressed concern over the speed of the work and emphasized the need for increased urgency.
“We expected more progress by this point, but the contractors have demonstrated their commitment. We are urging them to complete the major tasks before the peak of the August rains, so residents can start benefiting from the improvements.”
Addressing a recent protest by Udu youths calling for more governmental attention, Izeze acknowledged their concerns.
“The youths are justified in their demands; that’s part of democracy. However, I am here in Udu overseeing a significant project that is already underway. The assertion that Udu has been neglected is simply inaccurate.”
Izeze pointed out that the Oborevwori administration is currently executing several multi-billion-naira projects in Udu, including the Opete Road project and the ongoing rehabilitation of the Orhuwhorun–Usiefrun Road, which are essential for fulfilling the region’s socio-economic needs.
“Governor Oborevwori is focused on the overall development of Delta State, and Udu is included in that vision. The Bezi Road features a stone base, sharp sand treatment, and comprehensive drainage on either side. It meets high-quality standards,” he stated.
“As a Warri native, I am deeply familiar with every area of Delta. The Governor is aware of the concerns being raised, and he is addressing them progressively. Udu is certainly not left out,” he added.
Comrade Izeze underscored that development efforts are driven by fairness and the resources available, reassuring that the administration will persist in implementing beneficial projects throughout the state.
He also reiterated the importance of political unity under current leadership, stating, “Udu stands with Sheriff, and Sheriff stands with Udu. We are all part of the same political family within the APC under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Our journey toward progress continues, and no part of Delta will be overlooked.”
At Sokoh Estate Road in Uvwie Local Government Area, Izeze encouraged residents to be patient with the ongoing construction, assuring them that the project is on track to meet its timeline.
In response to residents’ complaints about the pace of work and perceived absence of contractors on-site, Izeze explained that their surprise visit was meant to provide an honest evaluation of the situation.
“We opted for an unannounced inspection, and we were pleased to see that contractors were present and actively working. Our message to the public is straightforward: road construction is a process, and it requires adherence to specific protocols to ensure lasting outcomes.”
Reflecting on the history of the Sokoh Estate Road, the Commissioner noted that it had suffered from decades of ineffective repairs.
“Since my initial visit to the area in the early 1990s, this road has had a troubled history. Despite various attempts by previous administrations, including the NDDC and the state government, the road has often failed to endure. However, Governor Oborevwori, a man of his word, is determined to change that legacy.”
He disclosed that the Governor personally oversaw the redesign of the project to ensure its drainage system could effectively handle the region’s heavy rainfall.
“The road’s width has been expanded from 7.3 meters to 10 meters, with dual-side drainage systems connected to the Warri and Environs Stormwater Drainage Project for efficient water management.
“Based on what we observed today, I assure residents that their patience will soon be rewarded,” Izeze emphasized.
“After enduring decades of hardship, they will soon reap the benefits of a properly constructed road. Once completed, this road will not only meet international standards but is also expected to last a minimum of 20 years. This is the Governor’s vision to establish durable infrastructure.”
“As we often say, no pain, no gain. His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has instructed me to assure the residents of Sokoh Estate that the current challenges are temporary. Soon, the contractors will finish their work, and residents will regain full access to their road, enhancing both business and mobility.”
Engr. Ifeanyi Ochuba, a representative of the contracting firm, confirmed that construction is progressing steadily and assured that the project would be completed by the scheduled deadline of December 2025.
