Asaba, Delta State – January 31, 2026 – The Delta State Government has reiterated its dedication to delivering durable, high-quality road infrastructure on schedule, while issuing a stern warning to communities and contractors against the unauthorized installation of speed breakers on public roads.
The assurance came from the Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, during an inspection tour of ongoing road rehabilitation and construction projects in Ughelli South and Udu Local Government Areas. Accompanied by engineers from the Ministry of Works, the commissioner assessed progress on key interventions aimed at improving connectivity and reducing travel times for residents.
At the 13-kilometer Ekakpamre–Ekrokpe–Usieffurun–Orhuwhorun Road rehabilitation project, Izeze described the initiative—awarded in June 2024—as a vital effort to ease movement between Orhuwhorun, Usieffurun, and Ekakpamre communities. He commended the appreciable progress recorded so far but highlighted challenges, particularly drainage issues stemming from an existing natural water channel along the corridor.
“This is another important project designed to ease movement and reduce travel time for our people,” Izeze stated. “While work so far is commendable, some challenges still exist. We have taken note of them and will present them to His Excellency in Asaba.”
He emphasized that effective drainage is essential for the road’s long-term durability, especially during the rainy season. “We need an effective discharge system to properly channel floodwaters. We are hopeful that these issues will be addressed so that the road will stand the test of time,” he added. The commissioner urged the contractor to accelerate work to enable asphalt laying before heavy rains intensify.
On the Effurun–Otor/Iwhrekekan–Ughevwughe–Eruemukohwaren–Otor-Edo–Usieffurun Road project in Ughelli South, Izeze reported that approximately 4.2 kilometers of drainage works had been completed, with the project now advancing toward the wearing course and installation of concrete slabs. He expressed concern over the slower pace along the Ughevwughe section but noted that the contractor had resumed operations on site.
“That project has taken longer than expected, but we are pleased that the contractor is back on site,” Izeze said. “We are optimistic that the asphalt overlay will be completed within the next couple of months.” He indicated that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori would be briefed on the need for approval of additional remedial works to ensure full benefits reach communities like Otor-Edo.
“Our engineers are closely monitoring the work, and the contractor is operating within the provisions of the BEME. We expect the project to be completed in the next two months,” he stated.
The commissioner issued a strong warning against indiscriminate erection of speed breakers, particularly on newly rehabilitated roads. He announced plans for a public sensitization campaign, in partnership with state-owned media, to educate residents of Orhuwhorun, Usieffurun, Ekrokpe, and surrounding areas on the requirement for official ministry approval before installing such features.
“Fixing speed breakers on any road requires the approval of the ministry. Anyone who, on their own, installs a speed breaker without authorisation will face consequences,” Izeze warned. He explained that unauthorized speed breakers unnecessarily increase travel time and create safety hazards for road users. Contractors who install them without permission during construction must remove them at their own expense.
Earlier, Mr. Ricardo Oguma, Managing Director of Obakpor Engineering—the firm handling the Ekakpamre–Ekrokpe–Usieffurun–Orhuwhorun project—acknowledged the difficulties posed by the densely populated communities and high human activity along the route. He noted that some speed bumps had been placed at busy junctions to manage traffic flow, given the road’s role as a major local artery.
“Our total drainage provision is about 750 metres along the 13-kilometre stretch, which is what was captured in the project, and we have completed it,” Oguma said. He praised the host communities for their full cooperation, describing the support as “one hundred per cent.”
The inspection tour underscores the Oborevwori administration’s focus on people-centered infrastructure, quality assurance, road safety, and value for money. Under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who has prioritized statewide development since taking office, the state has approved and advanced numerous road projects, including flyovers in Agbor and Ughelli, as well as rehabilitations across various local government areas.
These efforts align with broader commitments to sustainable infrastructure that withstand environmental challenges and serve the long-term needs of Deltans. The ministry’s proactive monitoring and public education initiatives aim to protect public investments while promoting responsible community engagement.
