From Owen Akenzua, Asaba
Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori has approved N8.4 billion for Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, to settle long-standing contract liabilities dating from 2010 to 2023.
The intervention is aimed at restoring contractors confidence, revitalise grassroots development and stimulate economic activities across oil-producing communities.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu disclosed this while briefing journalists at the Government House, Asaba, after a meeting between the governor and the management of DESOPADEC.
Aniagwu explained that the funds would be used to pay contractors who executed verified projects for the commission, but had remained unpaid for years.
He noted that contractors owed N20 million and below would receive 100 percent payment, while those owed above N20 million would receive 50 percent as first installment.
He stated that the approval reinforces the governor’s resolve to confront inherited financial burden rather than ignore them, in line with the administration’s MORE Agenda of Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
“You will recall that not long ago, Oborevwori directed the release of N10 billion to the State Pension Bureau to clear a substantial portion of outstanding pension liabilities.
“This is consistent with his earlier intervention on the settlement of promotion arrears. Despite the fact that many of these challenges predated his administration, he has continued to address them with courage and compassion,” Aniagwu said.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of DESOPADEC, Chief Festus Ochonogor commended the governor for the financial intervention, describing it as a major step towards restoring trust and ensuring continuity in project delivery across oil-producing communities.
Ochonogor added that since Oborevwori assumed office, the current DESOPADEC management had sustained regular payment to contractors for projects executed under its watch, stressing that the newly approved funds are specifically to settle inherited contractual obligations from previous years.
