Following allegations that the multi-billion naira flyovers in Effurun and Warri Delta state are being constructed with cheaper rods, Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze on Monday lambasted critics saying Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has zero tolerance for shabby jobs and sharp practices in project’s delivery.
Speaking during an unscheduled inspection of the ongoing flyover bridge at PTI Junction, Effurun, in Uvwie Local government area, the Commissioner emphasized that the governor was committed to quality and would never allow anything that deviates from project specifications.
According to Izeze, the clarification became necessary following a viral video that trended on Sunday alleging that the rods being used for the construction of flyover bridges in Effurun and Warri are 10mm in diameter, contrary to the 16mm provided in the BEME.
“The reason we are here today is to address a malicious claim that the rods being used for the project are 10 millimetres in diameter, which is simply untrue,” he stated.
“This project has been designed by some of the best engineers in the country and is being supervised by top professionals within the Ministry of Works.
“The governor is known for his consistent commitment to quality. He supervised the construction of the Osubi Airstrip by Julius Berger over 20 years ago and has visited this site more times than I can count.
“He has closely followed every process because this project is very dear to his heart; he is dedicated to giving Warri and Uvwie a much-needed facelift.
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“In his pursuit of quality projects, he has mandated that our certification process will now involve dual oversight: after the Ministry of Works certifies a project, the Special Project unit will also conduct its own certification. This illustrates his deep concern for the quality of his projects.
“He aims is to leave a legacy of durable projects—not roads that will wash away after one or two rainy seasons.
“Meanwhile, someone who cannot accept the outcome of the last election has publicly alleged that this project is not being constructed according to specifications, despite not having seen the Bill of Quantities.
“We attempted to clarify the situation, but he insisted that the rods used are 10mm. As an engineer, I believe in facts: we have measured the rods with a vernier calliper, and they are 16.0mm.
“To further reinforce our position that this project will stand the test of time, every piece of steel used has been imported, which accounts for the difference in cost compared to local contractors.
“The misinformation being spread by this individual is completely unfounded, and despite our repeated explanations, he continues to spread it with enthusiasm”, he added.
Mr. Thomas Haug, the Project Manager of Julius Berger, affirmed that the rods being used are 16mm, contrary to the speculation that they are 10mm.
He stated that all the rods are imported and not locally produced in Nigeria. “We are working according to specifications, and we are confident that the project will stand the test of time,” he added.
