The Delta State government and some communities have disagreed over being sidelined in infrastructure development of their areas
The Isoko Nation raised an alarm of being sidelined in recent infrastructure approvals by the State Executive Council (EXCO), while youths in Udu protested, demanding more government attention.
The state government said their agitation was understandable but described the allegations as misleading and not reflective of the administration’s equitable development agenda.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration has continued to prioritise infrastructure development, healthcare and education across all parts of Delta state, including the Isoko axis.
Aniagwu emphasised that contrary to the claims, the Isoko nation has benefited immensely from the administration’s MORE Agenda, with over 53 strategic projects either completed, ongoing, or approved across Isoko north and Isoko south local government areas
He said the projects cut across road infrastructure, internal road networks in rural and urban communities, healthcare upgrades and significant interventions in tertiary education.
Corroborating, Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration to equitable development across all parts of the state, dismissing claims that Udu LGA has been sidelined.
At an inspection tour of ongoing road projects in Udu, particularly the Bezi Road and drainage project linking Aladja to Ogbe-Ijoh, headquarters of Warri South West LGA, Izeze said the presence of the administration in Udu is a clear demonstration of its dedication to inclusive infrastructure development.
“We are here to assess the progress on this critical road, the initial design of the road failed to anticipate the volume of water in the area. However, upon discovering the inadequacy of the original drainage plan, the government promptly approved an additional 465 meters of drains to channel water to a nearby natural canal along the Ogbe-Ijoh–Aladja axis,” he stated.
Responding to complaints from residents about the pace of work and the perceived absence of contractors on-site, Izeze explained that the inspection visit was unannounced to allow for an honest assessment.
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