Delta Won’t Pay For Shoddy Projects – Commissioner

The Delta State government has said  any construction company found to be involved in sharp practices would be prosecuted for breach of contract.

Speaking during the maiden meeting with contractors operating in the state, the commissioner for highway and urban roads, Engr. Reuben Ezezi, said the government would not pay contractors for poorly executed roads and other projects under the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori-led administration.

He said the decision became necessary as some of the companies shortchanged the former administration with poor-quality road projects.

Ezezi said; “We want roads that will stand the test of time and will be worth the money spent by the state government.

“We will not tolerate low-quality construction, if you do your job according to specifications, you can go to sleep because we will keep our part of the bargain.”

The commissioner for riverine and rural roads, Mr Charles Aniagwu, said the government would play its part in ensuring quality jobs as it would not pay for any substandard project.

He further urged contractors to guard against issues with host communities by paying compensation to property owners affected in the course of project execution.

While promising contractors speedy payment for projects, he charged them  to intimate government of the need for changes in project designs without jeopardising the work by employing sharp practices.

“As much as possible, we will provide a level playing field such that every partner will have a fair deal. Any poorly executed job will not be paid for,” he warned.

Earlier during the familiarity meeting, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Works, Mr Fred Edafioghor challenged the contractors to ensure they do their quota in achieving the mission of the Oborevwori-led administration in the infrastructural sector of the state.