Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has said that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori approved the takeover and reconstruction of the failed Effurun–Ohorhe section of the federal highway due to the daily hardship experienced by Deltans and other Nigerians plying the route.
Izeze disclosed this on Monday during an inspection of the ongoing 10-kilometre dualisation of the Effurun to Ohorhe Junction along the Effurun-Sapele Road, noting that the intervention underscores the administration’s empathy and commitment to the wellbeing of road users.
According to him, “The Governor is deeply concerned about the hardship faced by motorists and road users on this corridor. That is why the state took over this section of the federal road. Even though it is a federal highway, it is Deltans and Nigerians who use it daily to earn a living, and they are the ones bearing the brunt of its poor condition.”
The Commissioner, who was accompanied by the Functioning Permanent Secretary, Engr. Solomon Aghagba and other top officials of the Ministry of Works, expressed satisfaction with the quality of work executed so far, stating that it conforms with prescribed standards.
“The quality of the work we have seen is according to specification. We are currently standing on a 7.3-metre pavement being reinforced and awaiting concrete application. Everything we have observed aligns with approved standards,” he said.
He commended the contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, for maintaining quality delivery and a commendable pace, but urged the firm to accelerate work to alleviate the hardship faced by commuters.
“Considering the heavy traffic on this road, we must commend CCECC for the progress made so far. However, we urge them to increase the pace so that at least one lane can be completed soon for traffic diversion, which will help reduce the suffering of road users,” Izeze added.
Appealing for patience, the Commissioner acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the ongoing construction, assuring motorists that efforts are being intensified to deliver the project within a reasonable timeframe.
He explained that the road, when completed, would measure over 11 metres in width, comprising a 7.3-metre carriageway, a 2.76-metre left shoulder, and a 1.5-metre right shoulder.
He noted that the adoption of rigid concrete pavement was a deliberate choice to ensure durability, given the volume of traffic on the route.
“We understand the pains commuters are going through, but we appeal for patience. In no distant time, one lane will be ready for diversion to ease traffic. No pain, no gain,” he said.
A representative of the construction firm, Engr. Ayunku Selekenwei also confirmed that the project is scheduled for completion in April 2027.
