Delta State Govt Cancels Asaba-Oko Road Project Over Poor Performance

THE Delta State Government has officially revoked the contract for the construction of the Asaba/Oko-Amakom/Oko-Obiokpu/Oko-Anala Road. The decision was made due to slow progress and poor performance by the contractor.

The contract, first awarded in 2018, was meant to connect several communities in Oshimili South Local Government Area. However, the contractor failed to meet the expected work pace, despite receiving mobilization funds.

The State Executive Council (EXCO), led by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, made the decision at its latest meeting in Asaba.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Commissioner for Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the government would review records to determine if the contractor must refund any money.

“We are looking at what has been done versus what was paid for,” Aniagwu explained.
“We will assign a new contractor with better capacity to deliver the project on time.”

The State Executive Council also approved several new infrastructure and social projects aimed at improving living conditions in the state:

To improve access to safe drinking water and fight the spread of diseases, a major water supply project was approved for Okerenkoko in Warri South LGA.

The council included additional erosion sites in Warri in its flood management plans to reduce damage during heavy rains.

EXCO approved the demolition and rebuilding of a two-storey classroom block at West End Grammar School, Asaba.
The project will:

• Expand the block to 20 classrooms

• Add a conference hall for assemblies

• Include modern toilet facilities

This upgrade will help the school move from double sessions to a single full-day schedule.

Ogini Grammar School in Oghara has been renamed Ogini Model Secondary School, reflecting its improved learning environment.

The government also approved a new ICT training program for young people. Trainees will receive starter packs to begin careers in tech and digital services.

The council reviewed ministry allocations in the proposed 2022 budget and discussed the possibility of a supplementary budget for 2021.

Due to the spread of the Delta variant, the government has ordered mass sensitization on safety measures like:

• Wearing face masks

• Handwashing

• Social distancing

“We are not planning a lockdown,” Aniagwu said.
“But we must all take responsibility to stop the virus.”

The state has set up vaccination points in all local government areas and major markets. Residents are encouraged to get vaccinated to protect themselves and their families.

Aniagwu also urged religious leaders and community influencers to help educate people about the benefits of vaccination.

The Delta State Government is taking strong steps to improve infrastructure, protect public health, and support education and youth development.

The cancellation of the Asaba-Oko road contract is a clear sign that the state will not tolerate poor performance, especially on critical public projects.