The Delta State Government has restated its commitment to democratic values and inclusive governance, emphasizing that it welcomes constructive criticism aimed at improving service delivery and accountability.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, made this known during a press briefing in Asaba. He noted that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori remains open to sincere and fact-based feedback, which he described as essential for growth and good governance.
Response to Protests in Udu
Aniagwu’s comments followed recent protests by some youths in Udu Local Government Area. He claimed that the demonstrations were driven by misinformation and political manipulation aimed at discrediting the government ahead of upcoming elections.
Flanked by key government communication officials — including the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Festus Ahon; Director-General of the State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr. Fred Latimore; and Executive Assistant on Public Enlightenment, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika — Aniagwu alleged that certain individuals, unable to confront the government directly, were sponsoring others to distort facts and stir discontent.
Commitment to Equity in Project Distribution
Aniagwu stressed that despite Udu’s limited support for the Oborevwori administration during the 2023 elections, the area has benefited significantly from ongoing developmental projects. He described this as evidence of the government’s fairness and commitment to equity across all 25 local government areas.
“Regardless of voting patterns, we have invested heavily in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and market development in Udu,” he said.
Infrastructure Development in Udu
The Commissioner listed numerous road and drainage projects, including:
Over 27.8km of roads and 24km of drainage systems constructed or rehabilitated, enhancing connectivity between Udu and neighboring LGAs such as Uvwie, Ughelli South, and Warri South-West.
Key road projects include the construction of:
The DSC Roundabout Flyover
CAC Road (off Orhuwhorun Road)
Bezi Road (off College Road, Aladja)
Awharode Street and Awharode Lane in Oghior
Dickey Street in Opete
Chief Godwin Okporoko Crescent (Phase I & II) in Opete
Rehabilitation of major routes, including:
Ekakpamre–Ekrokpe–Usiefrun–Orhuwhorun Road (spanning Udu and Ughelli South)
Aladja–Ogbe-Ijoh Road (Phases I & II), also involving Uvwie and Warri South-West
Reconstruction of Opete Road, linking DSC Expressway to Opete Waterside.
Aniagwu noted that Phase II of the Aladja–Ogbe-Ijoh Road has already been approved by the State Executive Council and is currently in the procurement phase.
Economic and Social Investments
Highlighting efforts to boost the local economy, Aniagwu pointed to the construction of the Udu Harbour Market, a ₦4.8 billion project. The modern market will feature:
230 lock-up shops
A modern abattoir
Solar lighting for night trading
Enhanced security facilities
Healthcare and Education Interventions
In the healthcare sector, the state is rehabilitating four primary health centers in Udu and has supplied a 4D ultrasound machine to the General Hospital in Otor-Udu to improve diagnostic services.
The education sector has also received attention, with several ongoing projects:
Construction of a JAMB ICT Centre at Ogbe-Udu Secondary School to provide students access to modern testing and training facilities.
Renovation and expansion of schools, including:
Okolor Waterside Primary School
Owhrode Secondary School
Ogbe-Udu Secondary School
Ekete Secondary School
Otor-Udu Secondary School
Aladja Grammar School
These renovations include new classrooms, offices, toilets, and furniture for students and teachers.
Electrification and Utilities
The government has installed a 500KVA transformer along the Orhuwhorun–Usiefrun Road and replaced solar-powered streetlights in Ukpiovwin Town and Ogbe-Udu, ensuring improved access to electricity and public lighting.
A Message Against Misinformation
Aniagwu urged residents, particularly the youth, not to fall for politically motivated misinformation campaigns. He reaffirmed that the state government remains focused on delivering sustainable development across all communities.
“Our work speaks for itself,” he said. “We are delivering progress in every local government area, not just where we received political support. Development is our duty, and we are fulfilling it with fairness and transparency.”
