BY SUNDAY EGEDE
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the release of ₦8.4 billion to Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) to offset contractual obligations.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Communication, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, disclosed this, today, while briefing Government House Correspondents shortly after a meeting between the Governor and management of DESOPADEC at Government House, Asaba.
Mr. Aniagwu disclosed that the Governor had once again demonstrated visionary leadership and empathy by approving the release of the money to pay DESOPADEC contractors who, he said, executed legitimate projects for the commission as far back as 2010 and had remained unpaid since then.
According to him, all verified contractors owed ₦20 million and below will be paid 100 per cent of their outstanding sums while those owed above ₦20 million will receive 50 per cent as part of the phased settlement plan.
This measure, the Commissioner said, will not only inject liquidity into the local economy of the state but also, restore confidence among contractors and partners of the state.
He noted that the gesture was a deliberate step towards stimulating grassroots prosperity and reaffirming government’s reputation as a credible and responsible partner in development.
“You will recall that not too long ago, His Excellency directed the release of ₦10 billion to the State Pension Bureau for the purpose of clearing a substantial portion of outstanding pension liabilities.
“That action was a continuation of his earlier intervention to address the issue of promotion arrears, which he resolved upon assumption of office.
“It is important to emphasize that many of these challenges predated the administration of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.
“Yet, in keeping with his “MORE Agenda” anchored on Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security, he has chosen not to ignore the burdens of the past but to confront them head-on with courage and compassion.
“Today, His Excellency has once again demonstrated visionary leadership and empathy by approving the release of ₦8.4 billion to the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) for the settlement of long-standing contractual obligations,” Mr. Aniagwu added.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonogor applauded the Governor for approving the release of ₦8.4 billion to the Commission for the settlement of debts owed its contractors.
Chief Ochonogor said the projects executed by the contractors span vital sectors such as road construction, school renovation, water schemes, jetties, and other community development initiatives across various oil-producing areas of the state.
“Upon assuming office, His Excellency directed the Commission to undertake a thorough audit of its records to identify all verified claims and ensure fairness and transparency.
“Following that review, the Governor approved this significant financial intervention of ₦8.4 billion to clear these legitimate debts,” the DESOPADEC Managing Director said.
