SOME CONTRACTORS CONNIVING TO SHORT-CHANGE DELTA STATE- Oborevwori

The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday, stated that his administration is investigating allegations of collusion by some contractors and asphalt producers to shortchange the state.

Governor Oborevwori disclosed this while hosting the leadership of the Isoko Church Leaders' Forum, led by the Anglican Bishop of Oleh Diocese, Rt. Rev’d John Aruakpor, at Government House, Asaba.

He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the people of Delta State receive full value for every project executed by his administration.

He said: "As a government, we are doing our best, and I want to assure you that we will not tolerate substandard work on any of the projects we have awarded.

"We are determined to ensure that all projects meet quality standards. We are aware that some contractors have begun negotiating with asphalt producers to shortchange the state.

"We are investigating these contractors, and even if the asphalt has already been laid, we will excavate and send it for testing to verify its quality because we want to ensure that we get value for every project executed."

"I want to assure all Deltans that the MORE Agenda is on track, and we count on your prayers and support to achieve our goals."

The Governor, who praised the relationship between the Isoko nation and the state government, assured that the state would continue to explore ways to partner with the church to achieve inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.

"The church is a very strong ally of the government, and this partnership is beneficial for the peace, unity, and stability of our state.

"I thank you for recognizing some of the projects we have undertaken in the Isoko nation. Besides the initiatives you mentioned, we have completed the first phase of the Emevor-Orogun road and awarded the second phase, as well as the Olomoro-Igbide Road."

He added, "We are constructing the College of Health Sciences, which is nearing completion, and we have also awarded the second phase of this project.

"In consultation with Isoko leaders, we agreed to rename the university to Southern Delta University. This change will enable the university to receive accreditation for additional courses without restriction.

"I have also directed the Commissioner for Works, in charge of Highways, to assess the road that connects Isoko South and Isoko North.

"I want to assure you that this government serves all Deltans, and as I promised, I will not be partial. I will continue to work with all stakeholders, including church leadership, to move Delta State forward."

The Governor noted that his administration was the first to announce and implement the new minimum wage for state workers, adding that he had advised local governments within the state to implement it for their workers as well.

He appealed to religious leaders to continue praying for the President of Nigeria and state leaders, saying, "We need prayers in these challenging times to remain focused and to fulfill God's will so that our state and country may be at peace."

The President of the Isoko Church Leaders' Forum, Bishop John Aruakpor, said the visit was to thank Governor Oborevwori for the development initiatives he has brought to the area and for appointing Isoko sons and daughters to key positions in his cabinet.

Bishop Aruakpor, who said the group's vision is to foster all-round development in Isoko land, pledged their unwavering loyalty and support to the governor beyond his first term.

He commended Governor Oborevwori for establishing the College of Health Technology at Ovrode and the College of Health Sciences at the University of Science and Technology, Ozoro.