By Anne Azuka
The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to democratic ideals and transparency, declaring that it welcomes constructive criticism as a catalyst for growth and accountability.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, stated this while addressing journalists in Asaba. He emphasized that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is open to honest feedback that would enhance governance and public service delivery.
Responding to recent protests by some youths in Udu Local Government Area, Aniagwu said that certain individuals were attempting to manipulate public perception and incite unrest ahead of the forthcoming elections by spreading misinformation.
Flanked by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon, the Director-General of the State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr. Fred Latimore, and Executive Assistant on Public Enlightenment, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, Aniagwu said such tactics were being deployed by people who could not challenge the administration directly and were instead sponsoring others to misrepresent facts.
He stressed that the Oborevwori-led administration had been equitable in project distribution across all 25 local government areas, including Udu, despite the area not overwhelmingly supporting the Governor during the 2023 general elections.
“Despite that, the government has invested heavily in infrastructure and human capital development in Udu,” he noted.
Highlight of Projects in Udu
Aniagwu revealed that over 27.8km of roads and 24km of drains have been constructed or rehabilitated in Udu, with strategic links to Uvwie, Ughelli South, and Warri South-West.
Major road projects listed include:
- The DSC Roundabout Flyover, transforming the area’s landscape
- Rehabilitation of CAC Road, off Orhuwhorun Road
- Construction of Bezi Road, off College Road, Aladja
- Rehabilitation of the Ekakpamre–Ekrokpe–Usiefrun–Orhuwhorun Road, spanning Ughelli South and Udu LGAs
- Reconstruction of Opete Road, from DSC Expressway to Opete Waterside
- Construction of Awharode Street/Lane, Oghior Town
- Construction of Dickey Street, linking Orhuwhorun Road to Ekete Waterside
- Construction of Chief Godwin Okporoko Crescent, including Phase 2 in Opete
- Rehabilitation of the Aladja–Ogbe-Ijoh Road, Phase I & II, traversing Udu, Uvwie, and Warri South-West
He disclosed that Phase 2 of the Aladja–Ogbe-Ijoh Road has already been approved by the State Executive Council and is currently in the procurement stage.
Ongoing Non-Road Infrastructure
Aniagwu also highlighted non-road infrastructure projects in Udu, including:
- Udu Harbour Market Project worth ₦4.8 billion, comprising 230 shops, a modern abattoir, night-time lighting, and enhanced security
- Rehabilitation of four Primary Healthcare Centres
- Provision of a 4D ultrasound machine to the General Hospital, Otor-Udu
In education, the Commissioner listed:
- Construction of a JAMB ICT Centre at Ogbe-Udu Secondary School
- Renovation of multiple schools, including:
- A block of six classrooms at Okolor Waterside Primary School
- Renovated classroom blocks with offices and toilets at Owhrode, Ogbe-Udu, Ekete, and Otor-Udu Secondary Schools
- Ongoing construction of three- and six-classroom blocks at Aladja Grammar School, complete with furniture for students and teachers
Other infrastructure projects include:
- Installation of a 500KVA transformer along Orhuwhorun–Usiefrun Road
- Replacement of solar-powered streetlights in Ukpiovwin and Ogbe-Udu
Call for Unity and Truth
Aniagwu stressed that all listed projects are verifiable and reflect the government’s unbiased approach to development.
“Development is a duty, and we are fulfilling that duty in Udu and beyond,” he said.
He urged residents, particularly the youth, not to be misled by politically motivated falsehoods, reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustainable development across all 25 LGAs, regardless of political leanings.
“Our work will always speak louder than misinformation,” he added.
