Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a strong warning to contractors handling various road and drainage projects across the state. He cautioned that any contractor failing to meet project specifications and deadlines could have their contracts revoked.
The governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, made this known in a statement on Wednesday. Okpebholo gave the warning while inspecting ongoing construction work in several communities, including Orior-Ozolua, Orior Uteh Palace Road, New Uteh Road in Ekiuwa Quarters, and Upper Ekenhuan open drainage near the Nigerian Army Cantonment.
During his visit to Orior-Ozolua Community in Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, the governor noted his dissatisfaction with the slow progress of work. Residents also raised concerns, stating that the contractor was rarely on-site and often closed work early. A community member, Sylvester Igbinovia, expressed frustration, saying, “Mr. Governor, this contractor is just too slow on this job. They close before 2 pm when they are on-site, but most times, they are not on-site. They are here today, your Excellency, I am sure they know that you are coming, that is why they are here today.”
Governor Okpebholo personally inspected the drainage project in Orior-Ozolua and noted that the contractor had not followed the required specifications. He was particularly displeased with the reduced width of the drainage channels and issued a stern directive to the contractor.
“Why did you reduce the width of the drain? You reduced it on both sides. Look at my face. If you are not doing the right thing and not working according to specifications, I can revoke the contract any moment without fear or favour. I need you to do a quality job. The resources belong to the people and must be utilized effectively and efficiently,” Okpebholo warned.
