Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has issued a stern warning to contractors handling various projects in the state, urging them to adhere strictly to specifications and timelines or risk contract termination.
The governor made the statement on Wednesday while inspecting ongoing road and drainage projects in Benin City. During the inspection, he expressed dissatisfaction with the slow progress of some projects, particularly the Orior-Ozolua Road, where residents had raised concerns about the contractor’s absence from the site.
At Orior-Ozolua, Governor Okpebholo criticised the contractor for failing to meet agreed-upon specifications, noting visible reductions in the width of the drainage system.
“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,” he warned.
The governor emphasised that public resources must be utilised effectively and efficiently, adding that contractors must prioritise quality work that benefits the people. He instructed the contractor to address the issues immediately or face the termination of the contract.
The inspection tour also included visits to other project sites such as Orior Uteh Palace Road, New Uteh Road, Ekiuwa Quarters, and the Upper Ekenhuan open drainage near the Army Cantonment.
Residents in the affected areas welcomed Governor Okpebholo and his team with gratitude, expressing optimism that the projects would bring much-needed development to their communities. Many residents lamented neglect by previous administrations and prayed for the governor’s success in delivering on his promises.
At Orior-Ozolua, a resident, Mr. Sylvester Igbinovia, voiced concerns about the contractor’s inconsistent presence and the slow pace of work, urging the governor to intervene to ensure timely completion of the project.
Governor Okpebholo reiterated his commitment to ensuring that all contractors deliver quality projects on schedule, warning that there would be no tolerance for substandard work or delays. “The resources belong to the people and must be utilised effectively and efficiently,” he stated.
