Forum Applauds Delta State Government’s Move to Fix Federal Roads, But Calls for Competent Contractors
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has commended the Delta State government, led by Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for its proactive step towards addressing critical federal road issues, particularly the Asaba-Benin Expressway and the Agbor-Eku Road. An initiative aimed to enhance road safety and ease of travel for residents and commuters.
The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) expressed their gratitude for the state government’s commitment to remedial work on the aforementioned federal roads, lauding the governor for his intervention plans. However, the forum emphasized the necessity of engaging competent contractors capable of delivering high-quality and durable road projects.
In a joint press release signed by Mr. Emmanuel Enebeli, Chairman of DOPF, and Mr. Shedrack Onitsha, Secretary of the forum, it was underscored that awarding contracts based solely on political patronage should become a thing of the past in Delta State. The statement read:
“We want to commend the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for heeding the cries of Deltans regarding the deplorable state of most federal roads in the state, which has made traveling along these roads an agonizing experience for many Deltans and other travelers passing through the State.”
“While DOPF salutes the government for this planned remedial work on federal roads, particularly the Asaba-Benin Expressway and the Agbor-Eku Road to make them motorable for road users in the state, we also charge the government to conduct due diligence on the competency of the contracting firm to undertake such remedial work.”
The forum further raised concerns about the history of awarding major road contracts in the state based on political affiliations rather than the competence of the firms involved. They cited a recent instance where a reputable construction company, Julius Berger, was awarded a contract for the construction of three flyover bridges and road expansion in the Warri/Effurun megalopolis, indicating a positive shift away from politically motivated awards.
“We are not against patronage of local indigenous firms that have a track record of delivering quality jobs, but we believe that consideration should be given more to the competency of the firm than to political affinity, which has hindered past efforts at delivering enduring projects,” the statement added.
The forum also expressed concerns about a local contractor, who is a major party loyalist with a history of poorly executed projects, being mandated to carry out repair work on the Agbor/Eku Road. They urged the government to prioritize competence in the selection of contractors to ensure lasting improvements on the roads.
The Delta State government’s move to address road infrastructure challenges has garnered widespread support from residents, who are hopeful for lasting improvements and a more comfortable travel experience. The Delta Online Publishers Forum’s call for transparent and merit-based contracting reflects the collective desire for effective governance and enduring infrastructure solutions in the state.
