Oborevwori’s Road Projects Transform Historic Okwagbe Community, Izeze Warns Contractors Against Substandard Work
THE Delta State Government says the ongoing construction of internal roads in Okwagbe Community, Ughelli South Local Government Area, marks a historic milestone, describing the projects as the first road infrastructure of their kind in the community since its establishment.
The Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, made the remarks while inspecting the projects, saying the intervention reflects Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to extending development to communities that have long been neglected.
According to Izeze, Okwagbe is one of the largest communities in Urhobo land and hosts one of the region’s biggest weekly markets, yet it had remained without internal road infrastructure for decades despite its economic and historical importance.
He recalled that the community played a strategic role during the colonial era as a major trading centre through the John Holt anchorage, which was linked to the Forcados River and the Atlantic Ocean.
“Okwagbe is one of the largest communities in Urhobo land. It hosts one of the biggest markets in the region and, considering its rich history, could have evolved into an international commercial hub,” the commissioner said.
He noted that previous administrations failed to provide internal road infrastructure for the community, adding that the Oborevwori administration had now taken concrete steps to address the longstanding gap.
“The two road projects currently under construction represent the first internal roads ever built in Okwagbe. This demonstrates Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to equitable development and improved living standards for the people,” he stated.
Izeze explained that the inspection was aimed at assessing both the quality and pace of work, adding that while construction had progressed satisfactorily, certain deficiencies were identified and contractors had been directed to correct them immediately.
“We are pleased with the progress recorded so far, but some shortcomings have been observed. Appropriate directives have been issued, and every aspect of the project must strictly comply with approved engineering specifications,” he said.
The commissioner used the opportunity to caution contractors handling government projects against compromising quality, stressing that the Oborevwori administration would not tolerate substandard execution.
He explained that the state government deliberately awards contracts to indigenous firms to stimulate the local economy, create employment opportunities and ensure that public funds circulate within Delta State.
“The governor is committed to strengthening the local economy through the engagement of competent indigenous contractors. However, that confidence must not be abused through poor-quality project delivery,” he warned.
Izeze said the issues identified during the inspection were being treated as an opportunity for the contractor to make immediate corrections, expressing hope that the company’s management would ensure full compliance.
He, however, warned that repeated cases of substandard work would attract severe sanctions, including termination of contracts, recovery of government funds and possible prosecution of both the company and its principal officers.
“If similar deficiencies are found during subsequent inspections, the contract will be terminated. The contractor will be required to refund all payments received, while appropriate legal action may also be taken where necessary,” he declared.
The commissioner reiterated that all government projects must strictly comply with the Bills of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME), stressing that every component captured in the contract documents must be fully executed.
“The BEME remains the benchmark for every government project. Every item specified must be delivered because every kobo spent belongs to the people of Delta State,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability and value for money, insisting that contractors who fail to meet approved standards risk being blacklisted from future government projects.
“Cutting corners is no longer acceptable. Contractors must understand that accountability is non-negotiable under this administration. Our responsibility is to protect public resources and ensure that Deltans receive quality infrastructure that will stand the test of time,” Izeze added.
