Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has intensified oversight of ongoing road projects across the state, demanding speed, quality, and accountability from contractors to ensure delivery of durable infrastructure.
On August 31, 2024, the Governor embarked on an extensive inspection tour of key road projects shortly after returning from Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area.
Among the projects visited was the 9.3km Illeh–Ukhun Road in Esan West, which is nearing completion with drainage installed, asphalt works ongoing, and sections prepared for final surfacing.
The Governor also inspected the ever-busy Moscow Junction along Sapele Road in Benin City, trekking nearly three kilometres through Moscow, Limit, PZ, Agip, Okabere, Winners, and Peanut Junction before ending at Old Road. His assessment focused on drainage works, foundation quality, and materials used.
Residents, traders, and motorists hailed the Governor during the walk, applauding his administration’s intervention in reconstructing the long-neglected route.
Speaking after the inspection, Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s resolve to enforce accountability and efficiency in project delivery. He revealed that just two weeks earlier, he had threatened to revoke contracts for Oghehe and Old Road over poor performance but noted visible improvements since then.
“What I saw two weeks ago was unacceptable, and I made it clear that the contracts would be revoked if there was no improvement,” he said. “Today, I am pleased with the progress. My priority is to ensure that Edo people get value for their money and that these projects are completed promptly to ease the gridlock that has plagued commuters for years.”
The Governor stressed that while recent improvements were commendable, strict monitoring would continue to guarantee results.
“Sapele Road has been a nightmare for motorists, but what we are seeing now gives us hope. We must ensure taxpayer funds are translated into infrastructure that truly serves the people,” he added.
Engr. Ubani Stanley, the contractor handling sections of the projects, admitted that the Governor’s stern warning had spurred the team to raise the quality and speed of work.
“The last time His Excellency visited, he was visibly unhappy and charged us to improve or risk contract termination. We took that challenge seriously, and today he has seen the improvements. We are committed to delivering the projects on schedule,” Stanley said.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that road construction remains central to his administration’s SHINE Agenda, promising more interventions across Edo State to improve mobility, connect communities, and boost economic growth.
