Construction work for a new palace for the Idoma’s paramount ruler, Och’Idoma, Dr. Elias Obekpa, kicked off following the laying of its foundation by Governor Samuel Ortom amidst cheers by the monarch’s subjects.
Ortom while performing the ceremony said that his administration was determined to provide a conducive environment for the traditional institution in the state to thrive.
He said he hoped that the project would be completed within the stipulated time and according to specifications, adding that the government would support the Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs with funding.
The governor explained that in order to avoid capital flight, his administration decided to engage indigenous contractors and engineers in its contracts.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barr. Ken Achabo, also said he was optimistic that the project would be completed on time.
The Och’Idoma, Agabaidu Elias Obekpa thanked the governor for his love for the Idoma nation.
The Chairman of Otukpo Local Government CounciI, Mr George Ali also thanked the governor for embarking on the project.
