Oborevwori Prioritises Safety Over Sanctions as 17 Articulated Truck Crashes Rock Ogwashi-Uku–Asaba Road

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to road safety–driven solutions rather than punitive sanctions following the recurring accidents involving articulated trucks along the Ogwashi-Uku–Asaba axis, particularly around the Ubu Bridge on the newly constructed Ughelli–Asaba dual carriageway.

The position was disclosed by the State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, who said the government’s response is anchored on enhanced traffic enforcement, driver discipline, and compliance, in line with global best practices and Delta State’s economic realities.

Delta Govt Opts for Safety Enforcement, Not Truck Bans
Izeze explained that Governor Oborevwori has consistently opposed measures that could be seen as restricting the free movement of goods and services, especially on strategic corridors linking Asaba, Ughelli, Warri, and other South-South commercial hubs.
Instead, the administration is rolling out stricter speed control, routine mechanical checks, and reinforced traffic regulation enforcement for articulated trucks plying the route.

“Our focus is on compliance and safety, not sanctions that may disrupt economic activities,” the Commissioner stated.

17 Accidents Recorded Since Road Completion
The renewed safety push follows the latest crash recorded in the early hours of Tuesday, December 30, 2025, which marked the 17th articulated truck accident on the Ogwashi-Uku–Asaba stretch since the road was completed.

The incident occurred near the Ubu Bridge, a section noted for its smooth pavement and modern drainage infrastructure designed to channel runoff from the Ogwashi-Uku hills into the Ubu River.

Eyewitnesses stressed the truck lost control while approaching the bridge, tilted, and partially blocked the carriageway. No casualties were recorded.

Mechanical Failure Claim Raises Fresh Concerns
The driver reportedly blamed the crash on mechanical failure, claiming the gear selector failed to engage a lower gear. He dismissed fatigue, describing the incident as an act of fate an explanation that has done little to reassure motorists and residents given the pattern of similar crashes at the same location.

Warning Signs Ignored on Ubu Bridge Axis
Izeze expressed concern that clearly visible warning signs and speed limit notices, installed months ago at the directive of Governor Oborevwori, are being consistently ignored by some articulated truck drivers.
He stressed that improved compliance and driver discipline remain central to the state’s strategy for reducing accidents on the corridor.

Call for Pro Bono Safety Solutions
In a public appeal, the Commissioner invited road safety experts, transport professionals, engineers, and concerned Delta residents to offer practical, pro bono solutions aimed at achieving zero accidents on the stretch.

He clarified that the appeal was not for consultancy services, but for public-spirited input to help safeguard lives and protect critical road infrastructure.

Strategic South-South Route Under Pressure
The Ogwashi-Uku–Asaba corridor has become one of the busiest interstate routes in Delta State, serving articulated trucks moving from the North, East, and South-West to Warri, Yenagoa, Port Harcourt, Akwa Ibom, and Calabar.

While the traffic volume has increased pressure on the road, residents continue to commend the quality and economic importance of the project under Governor Oborevwori’s infrastructure-focused administration.

As investigations into the latest incident continue, stakeholders have renewed calls for stronger enforcement, sustained public awareness, and responsible driving, warning that repeated accidents could undermine the long-term benefits of one of Delta State’s flagship road projects.