In response to the directive of Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Gerald Otiji, has issued a stern warning to construction firms involved in ongoing urban road projects in the state. The commissioner emphasized the urgency of completing all projects immediately and directed a 20-day ultimatum for the completion of phase one road projects across the state.
During an inspection of various construction sites in the state capital on Tuesday, Engr. Gerald Otiji stressed the importance of meeting deadlines and warned that failure to do so would result in sanctions aligned with both legal provisions and the terms of the contracts. He urged construction companies to mobilize for 24-hour work to expedite the completion of the projects.
Otiji highlighted the commitment of Governor Peter Mbah to ensuring the connectivity of all roads in the state to facilitate the smooth movement of people and goods. He expressed dissatisfaction with the slow progress of some construction firms, despite the quality of work being carried out.
The commissioner praised engineering firms that had successfully completed their projects, including those responsible for Phone Village Road, Fire Service, New Haven Market Road, College Road, Dayspring/Lagos Street, Police College, and Agbani Road.
Addressing the contractors, Otiji stated, “We are making it very clear that it is unacceptable to our government the slow pace at which some of these construction firms are going with their works. Even though they have been doing impressive quality job, we want them to double their efforts and deliver within time.”
He emphasized that the government had already made payments to the contractors, leaving no room for excuses. Otiji revealed that he had instructed the firms to provide daily progress reports, and failure to meet the specified timelines would lead to blacklisting, preventing them from securing future projects in the state.
As part of efforts to engage the public in the governance process, the commissioner encouraged residents to monitor and report any acts of sabotage, vandalism, or suspected attempts to subvert the peace of the state through the communication channels provided by the government.
Enugu State, under the leadership of Governor Peter Mbah, has declared a state of emergency on infrastructure, aiming to fulfill promises of urban renewal, improved access roads, and ease of doing business through a comprehensive infrastructural revolution. The government remains dedicated to realizing these objectives for the benefit of the people of Enugu State.
