Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Mr Reuben Izeze, has reaffirmed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to ensuring equitable development throughout the state.
Speaking on Saturday during an inspection of road projects in Udu Local Government Area, Izeze dismissed claims that the area was being neglected.
He inspected the Bezi Road and drainage project linking Aladja to Ogbe-Ijoh, headquarters of Warri South West Local Government Area.
He stressed that the Oborevwori administration prioritised inclusive infrastructure development for every part of the state.
He disclosed that an extra 465 metres of drainage had been approved to channel floodwater to a nearby natural canal.
Izeze expressed concern over the pace of work and urged the contractor to accelerate progress ahead of peak August rainfall.
He said, “We had expected more progress by now, but the contractors have shown commitment.
“We are pushing for completion before the peak of the August rains to avoid delays.”
He added that timely delivery of the Bezi Road would enable residents to enjoy its full benefits.
On a recent youth protest in Udu, Izeze said the demands were democratic but not reflective of reality.
“The youths have every right to demand more. But I am here, supervising an ongoing major project in Udu,” he said.
He described claims that Udu was being neglected as misleading and factually inaccurate.
According to him, several multi-billion-naira projects are ongoing in Udu, including the Opete Road and Orhuwhorun–Usiefrun Road.
He said the roads were essential to the area’s economy and social wellbeing, affirming Udu’s inclusion in development plans.
He described the Bezi Road as well-constructed, with stone base, sharp sand treatment, and full drainage on both sides.
“The governor hears the grumblings and is responding accordingly. Udu is not being left out,” he added.
He said all development efforts were based on fairness and available resources, promising continued impactful projects.
He also stressed unity under current leadership, saying, “Udu is with Sheriff, and Sheriff is with Udu.”
At Sokoh Estate Road in Uvwie Local Government Area, Izeze appealed to residents to be patient with the contractor.
He addressed concerns over project delays and absence of workers, saying the inspection was unannounced.
“We came without notice for a fair assessment, and we’re glad contractors are on-site working,” he said.
He urged residents to understand that road construction is a process that demands technical precision and time.
Reflecting on the project, he noted the road had faced decades of failed interventions by various administrations.
“I first visited this area in the early 1990s. The road has struggled to remain intact.
“In spite of efforts by past governments and the NDDC, it never stood the test of time,” he said.
He said Governor Oborevwori, whom he described as a promise keeper, was determined to change the road’s history.
The governor, he added, personally supervised its redesign to accommodate heavy rainfall through improved drainage.
The road’s width was expanded from 7.3 to 10 metres, with dual drains linked to the Warri Stormwater Drainage Project.
“Based on today’s inspection, what residents need now is patience,” Izeze added.
Mr Ifeanyi Ochuba, the contractor’s representative, confirmed steady progress and promised completion by December 2025.
