Ogba-Egbema Road: Fubara’s Timely Intervention 

The Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, recently issued a warning to anyone who attempted to
obstruct the ongoing reconstruction of the Omoku-Egbema Road in the Ogba/Egbema Ndoni Local Government Area of the State. This warning was timely and suitable. The governor delivered the warning following a meeting with traditional rulers and important individuals from the area at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Fubara was addressing concerns raised by the communities which were supposed to benefit from the project, as their chosen initial contractors were unable to fulfil their obligations even after receiving a significant amount of money (N12.7 billion). The report also stated that the governor received both a protest letter from the Ogba-Egbema Peoples Forum and a letter from a law firm. These letters requested that the Omoku-Egbema section of the road project be taken away from SETRACO (the current contractors) and given to Julius Berger.
He said: “I don’t expect this from you. This project was approved for your people’s benefit. You nominated a contractor. The contractor failed. Now we re-awarded and paying another money.” Continuing, he said, “Original cost of that job when it was awarded was N8.8 billion. It was reviewed to N13.3 billion. The total amount released at that time before the revocation was N12.7 billion, so you understand how we feel about this.
“Now we have re-awarded this job to SETRACO for N7.5 billion and we have already committed about N5.2 billion to show you our commitment. SETRACO is not a pushover company. To make my position clear, SETRACO will continue with this job. I expect you to give the necessary support and cooperation and you have a clean road. If you like to sabotage yourselves, don’t sabotage my own administration. I’m calm but I will do something you would not like.”
Governor Fubara deserves commendation for his quick intervention. Indeed, he exhibited courageous leadership in addressing the situation. His immediate reaction expresses a quick understanding of the issue at hand and a commitment to the well-being of the people. By stepping into the matter, he has taken proactive measures to mollify potential risks and ensure the safety of the contractor and the communities.
The Tide denounces the action of some Ogba-Egbema traditional rulers and stakeholders. They should be thankful to the governor for re-awarding the contract after the initial indigenous contractor, recommended by the communities, absconded with the money. These communities have to work with the state government towards achieving the successful completion of the road in the interests of all parties.
The Rivers State Government can hire any contractor it considers suitable for its projects. SETRACO is a well-known construction company that has earned a good reputation in the industry. They have completed large projects and are regularly patronised by the Federal Government as well. Their expertise and experience make them a good choice for the Rivers State Government to trust with their construction needs.
The construction giant is an exceptional engineering construction company with more than 35 years of experience in providing valuable civil and infrastructural projects. They have successfully completed projects in more than 20 states and currently operate in 15 states, contributing significantly to the development of Nigeria’s infrastructure. Their expertise lies in constructing roads, bridges, and other infrastructure using asphalt, aggregate, and precast production, among other services. With such an impressive track record, there is no doubt that the firm can effectively deliver on any given project.
Therefore, instead of requesting the establishment to be replaced by their preferred company, Julius Berger, it would be wiser for the communities and their stakeholders to approach their community member who took the initial contract money and disappeared, and ask for a reimbursement. By involving their community member, the community can address the situation and find a solution that may benefit everyone involved.
The state authorities should take immediate actions to apprehend and bring to justice the contractor who absconded with the money without fulfilling their contractual duties. Their actions not only show a breach of trust but also a violation of the legal regulations. By arresting the contractor and commencing legal procedures, the state government would show its commitment to maintaining accountability and guaranteeing the responsible handling of public funds. These efforts will help deter others from doing the same.
Undeniably, the governor of Rivers State has shown exceptional leadership and dedication in his efforts to improve the State. It is evident through his various initiatives that he is devoted to bettering the lives of the State’s residents. Fubara’s vision for the future is inspiring, and there is no doubt about his ability to bring about meaningful change. We should support his efforts to further develop the State instead of undermining his plans.
In the contemporary era, wherein various communities are advocating for progress, it is imperative for the Ogba-Egbema people to abstain from dissuading the government in their endeavour for ongoing developmental projects within their vicinity. Instead of hindering advancement, the communities should collaborate with the state government and the contractor to address any obstacles that may arise during the road construction.