Oborevwori Committed to Completing Orere Bridge – Izeze
Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has reaffirmed Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to completing the Orere Bridge project, despite logistical and environmental challenges.
Speaking during an inspection visit to the bridge site, Izeze commended Obakpor Engineering, the contractor handling the project, for their steady progress.
According to him, this is the first time I have crossed the Orere River to see work beginning on the other side of the bridge. They have already completed 250 meters on one side and are approaching the remaining 250 meters on the opposite end,” he said.
However, he noted that an unexpected mechanical issue with the contractor’s barge had caused a temporary delay. “They have had an issue with their barge’s propeller, which has slowed work for the past two days. I have advised them to consider securing an alternative in the future to prevent similar setbacks,” Izeze stated.
Izeze who was accompanied on the inspection by former Commissioner in the state, Edewor Omonemu, Chief Godwin Sito, His Technical Assistant Engr Ejovi Adasen and Deputy Director Highways Engr Eghwrudje Ojarigho, emphasized the urgency of maximizing work hours before the rainy season intensifies, as forecasted by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).
“Even as we speak, the rain is threatening. We hope significant progress can be made before the rains become too heavy,” he added.
Addressing concerns about the transportation of sand from Bayelsa State, Izeze acknowledged the logistical burden. “It’s important to understand that acquiring sand from Kaiama in Bayelsa is far more expensive than sourcing it locally. The contractor has raised this with us, and we will brief His Excellency, Governor Oborevwori, so he can guide us on the next steps,” he explained.
Reflecting on the progress since his last visit, the commissioner expressed cautious optimism. “Compared to the last time I was here, there’s been notable improvement. The retaining walls are now complete. While the surface still needs compaction, it’s clear the work is moving forward. These types of projects require time, particularly to allow proper curing and settling of materials,” he said.
Also present during the inspection was the Archbishop of the Bendel Province of the Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Cyril Odutemu, who is an indigene of the Orere community. He expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government for continuing a vital project started by the previous administration.
“We thank Governor Oborevwori for continuing this audacious project. The fact that he didn’t abandon it proves that government is indeed a continuum. Without his commitment, we wouldn’t be standing here today,” the Archbishop said.
He praised Obakpor Engineering for their efforts, noting that the difficult terrain has made the work particularly challenging. “Anyone familiar with this area will understand that the pace of work here has been impressive. The only real challenge has been occasional flooding, which has slowed progress.”
Archbishop Odutemu called on residents of Orere to support the project by cooperating with the government and construction workers.
“If our people cooperate and give their full support, I am confident that, even with the rains, work can continue. By the end of this year or early next year, we will be celebrating the bridge’s completion,” he said.
The Orere Bridge project, once completed, is expected to significantly improve connectivity and economic activities in the region.
