The Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Reuben Izeze, has said the ongoing reconstruction of the Uzere–Asaba–Ase Road and its associated bridge works reflects Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to inclusive and equitable development.
Speaking on Tuesday during an inspection of the project in Isoko South Local Government Area, Izeze described the initiative as a major intervention valued at about ₦8 billion, designed to link hinterland communities and improve the movement of people and agricultural produce.
“This project confirms to you, to the people here, and to Deltans in particular and indeed to everyone that this Governor is truly an unusual leader,” he said.
“For some of you, this may be your first time visiting this part of Delta State. You can imagine a Governor who is willing to commit about ₦8 billion to ensure that communities in the hinterlands are properly linked together.”
Accompanied by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Engr. Solomon Aghagba, and other ministry officials, the commissioner said the project was driven by the realities faced by rural residents, particularly women transporting farm produce across difficult terrain.
“We have been on the ground, and you have witnessed women carrying their farm produce, some of them struggling to move goods from one end to another. Without considering the needs of these people, we would not be able to undertake projects of this magnitude,” he stated.
According to Izeze, the governor views the project as central to his administration’s governance philosophy.
“When he says he is a Governor for all, he does not mean a Governor for particular tribes. He means a Governor for every person domiciled within the geographical space called Delta State,” he added.
The project, currently at over 60 per cent completion, involves the reconstruction of failed culverts and rehabilitation of distressed sections along the 4.35-kilometre road. It also features a new 100-span bridge, comprising an 80-metre main span and an additional 20-metre span across swampy terrain.
Izeze disclosed that, following challenges encountered by the contractor, the Ministry conducted an on-the-spot assessment and directed work to proceed strictly in line with the approved design.
However, he raised concerns over alleged attempts by a family in the area to obstruct the project.
“I would like this noted and reported properly, the Urie family of Uzere, who, perhaps out of ignorance, have attempted to impede the progress of this project,” he said, urging cooperation in the broader public interest.
“Delta State is governed by law. We will not degenerate into a state of lawlessness. The Private Property and Public Property Protection Law of Delta State is very clear: no individual, group, or community has the right to impede the development of any property,” Izeze warned.
“There is a new Sheriff in town, and under this Sheriff, anyone who behaves unlawfully will face the consequences of their actions.”
A representative of the contractor, LEBTECH Construction Limited, Mr Roni Karam, expressed confidence that the project would be delivered on schedule.
“As you can see, work is progressing steadily. By the end of April, by the grace of God, the project should be completed,” he said.
A project brief issued by the Ministry of Works’ Department of Highways in Asaba indicated that the original contract sums are ₦4,944,550,766.14 and ₦3,165,562,579.99, awarded on January 8, 2025, to LEBTECH Construction Limited.
The scope includes scarification, removal of unsuitable materials, sharp sand filling, placement of boulders over a 1,300-metre swampy stretch, crushed stone layering, installation of relief culverts, and rehabilitation works.
The Ministry disclosed that piling works, pile caps, and piers have been completed, with 32 of the required 35 longitudinal beams delivered. One abutment wall has been completed, while casting of the second is pending.
Upon completion, the project is expected to significantly improve connectivity along the Uzere–Asaba–Ase corridor, stimulate economic activity, and ease long-standing transportation challenges for residents of Isoko South and adjoining communities.
