Oborevwori Criticizes Poor Finishing on Beneku Bridge, Calls for Corrections

KWALE/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed dissatisfaction with the finishing of the Beneku Bridge, which connects Ndokwa West and Ndokwa East Local Government Areas. During an inspection of the project on Friday, the Governor described the bridge’s aesthetics as substandard, emphasizing the need for urgent corrections before its commissioning.

“The last time we inspected this project, we made observations, and some issues were addressed. However, I am not satisfied with the finishing. While the bridge is solid, the aesthetics are very poor, which is not acceptable,” Governor Oborevwori said.

He further disclosed that the state government has already paid 95% of the project cost, leaving no outstanding debt to the contractor. “This is a project I was supposed to commission two months ago. What is left is the final 5%, which is crucial, especially with the wearing course. Unfortunately, the finishing is not up to standard,” he stated.

The Governor promised to summon the contractor to address the deficiencies and ensure corrections are made. “This bridge is very significant to the people of this area, both economically and socially. It’s a project that deserves to be celebrated, and we cannot settle for less,” he added.

Recalling the challenges faced by residents before the bridge was constructed, Oborevwori highlighted the difficulties of using pontoons to cross the river, which led to extortion and delays. “This bridge has brought relief to the people. Before now, companies charged exorbitant fees to transport goods across the river. Today, the road is free for everyone,” he remarked.

During the same visit, Governor Oborevwori inspected the Ughelli-Asaba dualization project at Km 77 in Aradhe, Isoko North Local Government Area. He urged contractors to take full advantage of the dry season to fast-track ongoing projects.

“We are in the dry season, and this is the time to work hard. We’ve just inspected the Beneku Bridge, and now we are here to check the progress of the Ughelli-Asaba road dualization project. This is the time to deliver,” the Governor said.

While commending the progress of the 139-kilometer road project, Oborevwori advised motorists to drive cautiously and adhere to traffic rules. “The road is smooth, and people are happy using it, but safety is key. By April, we expect the road to be completed,” he said.

Governor Oborevwori also noted that many completed projects in the state are already in use, even though they are yet to be officially commissioned. He highlighted the Adagbrasa Road and the Upper and Lower Erejuwa Roads as examples. “At the right time, we will commission these projects, but what matters most is that people are benefiting from them,” he concluded.

The Governor reaffirmed the importance of infrastructure projects to the state’s development, particularly the Ughelli-Asaba road, which serves as a vital link between Warri and Asaba. “This is one of the largest and most impactful projects we’ve undertaken, and it will transform the lives of many communities,” he added.