Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State invited Senator Ovie Omo-Agege and opposition leaders on Wednesday to tour statewide infrastructure projects.
Following a Ughelli-Asaba Expressway bridge inspection, he urged critics to witness transparent governance and resource allocation firsthand.
Asserting accountability, Oborevwori dismissed mismanagement allegations as baseless, challenging detractors to assess progress directly.
He stressed completed initiatives like the Ubu River bridges counter opposition claims, encouraging collaborative oversight through inclusive engagement.
“I don’t want to engage in unnecessary debates with my critics. There are claims that we’ve received substantial funds and are spending over ₦70 billion on flyovers.
How can a flyover cost ₦77 billion? Let them come and see how we are utilizing the money,” Oborevwori said.
Highlighting his administration’s fiscal responsibility, the governor noted that despite operating for nearly 21 months, the state has not resorted to borrowing.
“We have not borrowed a dime, and there is no contractor in Delta State who can claim we owe them. Yet, our multiple projects are progressing smoothly,” he added.
The governor pointed to the improved travel time on the Ughelli-Asaba Expressway as evidence of his administration’s commitment to infrastructure.
“It now takes just one hour and twenty minutes to get to Ughelli, his [Omo-Agege’s] local government area. The road is in excellent condition,” he stated.
Twin Bridges Completed, Road Commissioning Set for Year-End
Governor Oborevwori praised the completed Ubu River twin bridges today, hailing them as vital infrastructure milestones. Transitioning to timelines, he vowed to finish the 143-kilometer road project by December 2023 after years of construction.
“During my last inspection, this site posed significant obstacles,” he recalled. “Now transformed, Sector C1’s bridge enables May 29 inauguration through determined execution.”
I commend CCECC, the contractor, for their commitment to delivering quality work.”
Oborevwori also revealed that he had instructed contractors to move away from relying solely on the Irrevocable Standing Payment Order (ISPO) system to ensure faster project delivery. “I told them not to depend on ISPO schedules because that would slow us down. Instead, I assured them that if they complete their work on time, payment will be made in full. This approach has significantly accelerated progress,” he noted.
Progress Across Key Sections of the Road
The governor detailed the advancements made across various sections of the Ughelli-Asaba Expressway. He highlighted that Sector C2, spanning 25 kilometers from kilometer 92 to kilometer 117—including the twin bridges—was nearing completion. Similarly, work on Sector C3, covering 22 kilometers from Kwale Junction to kilometer 138.6, was progressing rapidly.
“By God’s grace, this long-standing project will be completed by year-end, and Deltans will finally enjoy the benefits of a fully functional road,” Oborevwori assured.
Ofagbe Bridge Under Review
During his visit to the Ofagbe bridge along the Isoko Ring Road, Governor Oborevwori disclosed plans to meet with the contractor responsible for the project. “We will assess whether the contractor can continue with this project or if alternative arrangements need to be made,” he stated.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering on its promises and ensuring that all ongoing projects are completed within stipulated timelines. “We are focused on results. The people of Delta State deserve nothing less,” he concluded.