By Elohor Foghola and Elizabeth Oduje
Executive Director of Projects on the Board of Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, has reiterated the commission’s dedication to ensuring prompt payments for all completed projects.
This statement was made yesterday as Chief Okorodudu led a team of staff, accompanied by Hon. Julius Egbedi, the Member representing Okpe, Sapele, and Ethiope West on the Board of DESOPADEC, during an ongoing inspection of DESOPADEC projects across DESOPADEC mandate areas
While inspecting a series of completed road projects in Jesse Town, located in the Ethiope West Local Government Area, Dr. Okorodudu praised the contractor for adhering to the approved standards outlined in the Bill of Quantity.
He expressed concern over certain contractors who have been protesting against the Commission, emphasizing, “DESOPADEC operates as a responsible government agency. Being awarded a contract is a privilege. The correct course of action is to execute the project according to the approved specifications, submit your certificate, and payment will follow.”
During the visit to Jakpa-Elume in Sapele Local Government Area, where DESOPADEC has installed 30 solar-powered streetlights, Dr. Okorodudu remarked, “Light is essential for life; it has revitalized the atmosphere. This initiative not only provides illumination but also enhances security in the community.”
The inspection team also inspected the completed road construction at the DESOPADEC Area Office Road in Amukpe, Sapele Local Government Area. Chief Okorodudu emphasized the purpose of the inspection, stating, “We are here to evaluate the progress of awarded projects and identify any challenges that require attention. This road not only leads to the area office but also serves a significant number of residents.”
He commended the contractor for delivering a project that meets the required standards and expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for his oversight in ensuring its completion.”
Continuing, the team proceeded to Jesse Town in Ethiope West Local Government Area, where a network of over 700 meters roads has been constructed and completed—including Agbroko Road, Super Road, Oyibo Road, and Erhiekevwe Road. Okorodudu highlighted the importance of DESOPADEC as an interventionist agency:
“Coming here has reinforced the vital role DESOPADEC plays in improving the lives of people in oil-bearing communities. The connectivity provided by these roads will boost economic and social activities.
“I commend the state government for providing the necessary resources to execute these projects. If the government had not made these funds available, we would not be here celebrating these achievements.”
The team also inspected several other projects, including: , Etakpobunor road with drainage, linking Otite road in Sapele Local Government Area, New Ogorode Road in Sapele, Ongoing Fedison Road, with two-sided drains measuring, leading to New Ogorode Road, Capricorn Road constructed as a single carriageway, Orhoakpo Community Road (264m), where the first phase of 130m has been completed in Ethiope East local government and Onosode Drive road in Ughelli North
Speaking to DESOPADEC newsmen, Chief Egbedi emphasized the economic benefits of improved road infrastructure.
“Good road networks attract economic growth. The value of land in these areas has increased, and we are seeing new investments, including hotels and residential buildings. This is how development should be.”
The team proceeded to Udu Local Government Area where they inspected the completed Okolor Waterside Primary School
The president General of Okolor Waterside community Mr Alfred Omorere praised DESOPADEC for the renovation of the six classrooms block , highlighting the significant improvements in security and infrastructure.
“Previously, the classrooms were in poor condition—damaged ceilings, faulty sinks, and weak doors that made students feel unsafe.
There was constant fear of break-ins and theft,” Alfred said. “Now, with the renovations, everything is in order, and the community is happy. The students can learn without fear, and we truly appreciate this project.”
Dr. Okorodudu commended the State Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori for the opportunity to do the work, saying we are following the footprints of the Governor and his More Agenda to deliver quality projects to the people.
