The paramount traditional ruler of Asaba kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Asagba Prof Epiphany Azinge; SAN, OON, on Wednesday inspected the ongoing Obiaije Community Primary School, and the Oshimili South Local Government modern cemetery projects, in the Akwu Ose area of Asaba.
At the Primary School project site, the Monarch, who was received on arrival by the Chairman of the Building Committee, Obi Dr. Benibe Ugboko, expressed satisfaction with the progress of work, and thanked the Committee and the contractor for the seriousness attached to the project.
He said the idea of the school was to provide a learning place for children in the far-flung Akwu Ose community, which currently did not have any, stressing that the school would not discriminate against any child in the enrolment process.
The Asagba recalled that a 90-day timeline was set for the completion of the project, expressing optimism that it would be ready by the end of August for hand over to the Delta State Government, subsequent upon which the school might be operational in the next academic session.
Conducting the royal father and his entourage round the project site, the Building Committee Chairman, Obi Dr. Benibe Ugboko; said the facility, now at the roofing stage, was progressing well, adding that baring any unforeseen circumstances, it would be ready by the end of August.
He revealed that the vandalism of some construction materials had been a challenge, assuring, however, that the project had gotten to the stage where that would no longer be possible.
Obi Dr. Ugboko articulated the significance of the school in the Akwu Ose neighbourhood, and commended Asagba Prof Epiphany Azinge for the vision of establishing the institution.
At the site of the Oshimili South Local Government modern cemetery, His Majesty met work in progress and commended the Managing Director of the memorial park, Chief Afam Obiago, for his commitment to bringing it to fruition.
The Asagba said he was in a hurry to have the cemetery ready so that he could make the appropriate proclamation regarding burials within residential areas of the community, especially in the villages.
He stated that the facility would serve as a befitting and dignified final resting place for departed loved ones, address the environment hazards of burying the dead close to boreholes, as well as preserve local heritage, offer valuable green space, and provide deep historical insights into the culture and evolution of the community, while also serving as a tourist attraction.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of the cemetery, Chief Afam Obiago, who is also the Oganihu of Asaba, thanked His Majesty for visiting to inspect the project which, he explained, was a partnership venture between his company and the Oshimili South Local Government.
Chief Obiago said on completion the cemetery would have 350 vaults, a Chapel, reception hall, CCTV camera, a parking lot, and a green lawn area for those who would not be able to pay for the vaults, amongst others.
He told the traditional ruler that the project was being executed in phases, adding that it would be ready in August.
