The Director General of the Delta State Bureau of Orientation and Communications, Barr. Dr. Fred Latimore, has expressed concerns over reports regarding a N40 billion loan guaranteed by the state government for local government councils. The loan was intended to address pension payments for local government retirees.
Dr. Latimore clarified that the loan was taken by the local government councils, with an agreement for repayment through deductions from their federal allocations. He emphasized that the state government only provided a guarantee to facilitate the loan, as required by the bank, and did not directly borrow the N40 billion, as some reports have suggested. He confirmed that the bank has already begun the repayment process.
Speaking at the 7th edition of the Journalists Hangout in Asaba on Sunday, September 1, 2024, Dr. Latimore urged journalists to ensure accuracy and balance in their reporting. He called for collaboration between the media and government to enhance public understanding of government policies.
Dr. Latimore also commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his decision not to commission a poorly constructed road project, the Nshiagwu 9.1 km road. The governor has instructed the contractor to redo the work to meet the required standards. Latimore praised the governor’s commitment to quality, noting that this level of integrity is rare and deserves recognition.
During the event, several other road projects in need of urgent attention were brought to Dr. Latimore’s notice. He assured that the current administration would not tolerate substandard infrastructure and encouraged communities to report any issues with ongoing projects.
On the topic of state broadcasting services, Dr. Latimore revealed that efforts are underway to revamp the Delta Broadcasting Service (DBS) stations in Asaba and Warri, along with The Pointer newspaper. He stated that these stations would soon be available on DSTV and GOTV, enabling them to compete with private broadcasters.
Dr Latimore also addressed the issue of flooding in the state, detailing the government’s ongoing sensitization campaign to inform residents in flood-prone areas on how to protect their properties and relocate to safer areas. A Disaster Management Committee has been established to provide assistance and palliatives to those who will be affected by floods, he added.
The Chairman of the Delta State NUJ, Comrade Churchill Oyovwe, thanked Dr. Latimore for attending the event and congratulated him on his recent appointment. He described the Journalists Hangout as a platform for constructive dialogue between journalists and newsmakers, aimed at fostering mutual understanding and improving societal outcomes.
