Oborevwori Took Over Failed Federal Road To End Daily Gridlock — Izeze
Delta Explains Federal Road Takeover
DELTA State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori approved the takeover and reconstruction of the failed Effurun–Ohorhe section of the federal highway because of the severe hardship motorists faced daily.
Speaking during an inspection of the ongoing dualisation of the corridor, Izeze said the state government could no longer ignore the economic and social burden imposed by the deteriorated road.
The Effurun-Ohorhe stretch is one of the busiest transport arteries in Delta State, serving commuters, traders, heavy-duty vehicles and interstate travellers moving through the Warri axis.
Why the State Stepped In
Although the road falls under federal jurisdiction, Izeze said the immediate suffering was being borne by residents and road users who depend on the route for work and commerce.
According to him, Governor Oborevwori’s decision reflected empathy and practical governance, especially where delays in federal intervention had prolonged congestion, vehicle damage and lost productive hours.
Analysts note that state takeovers of federal roads have become increasingly common across Nigeria, as subnational governments seek quicker solutions to critical transport bottlenecks.
Progress on 10-Kilometre Dualisation
The commissioner inspected the ongoing 10-kilometre dual carriage project from Effurun to Ohorhe Junction along the Effurun-Sapele Road.
He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work, stating that construction standards observed on site matched approved engineering specifications.
Officials said the pavement currently under reinforcement would later receive concrete surfacing designed for long-term durability.
Why Concrete Pavement Was Chosen
Izeze explained that rigid concrete pavement was deliberately selected because of the intense traffic volume on the corridor.
Compared with asphalt, concrete roads can offer longer service life under heavy truck usage, though they may require higher initial construction costs and longer curing periods.
Transport engineers say such roads are often preferred on freight corridors where repeated axle pressure quickly damages weaker surfaces.
Contractor Praised, Urged to Accelerate
The commissioner commended China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the contractor handling the project, for maintaining quality delivery and a steady pace.
However, he urged faster execution to allow at least one completed lane to be opened for traffic diversion.
That temporary relief, he said, would reduce daily suffering currently experienced by commuters trapped in long queues and slow movement.
Appeal for Public Patience
Acknowledging current inconvenience, Izeze appealed to motorists for patience, saying construction disruption was temporary and necessary.
He assured residents that government was pressing for timely completion and improved traffic management in the interim.
A representative of the contractor, Engr. Ayunku Selekenwei, confirmed that the project is expected to be completed by April 2027.
Bigger Economic Importance
Beyond easing traffic, the road upgrade is expected to strengthen logistics movement in Delta’s industrial belt, improve travel time, reduce vehicle maintenance costs and support trade across the Niger Delta corridor.
For many commuters, however, the most urgent expectation remains simple: an end to daily gridlock.
