Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has summoned contractors handling the Benin-Sapele Road project to explain the slow pace of work despite being financially mobilized by the government.
The governor, who expressed displeasure over the delay, warned that contractors who fail to provide satisfactory reasons risk facing serious sanctions.
Governor Okpebholo made this known on Sunday evening after personally inspecting over 20 kilometers of the ongoing project. He stopped at multiple points along the road to assess the quality of drains, pavements, and construction materials.
During the inspection tour, which took him and his entourage through heavy gridlock on the busy highway, motorists cheered and commended the collaboration between the Edo State Government and the Federal Government in addressing the long-abandoned road.
The governor also inspected critical spots including Peanut Junction, Ogheghe Junction by Akenuwa Community, Ogheghe Road off Sapele Road, and Old Road — areas that had been neglected by past administrations despite repeated promises.
Speaking after the inspection, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that his administration is prioritizing the welfare of Edo residents. He noted that while the quality of work appeared solid, the pace was unacceptable.
“I have inspected what they are doing and the work is solid and good. But the problem is the level of speed, which is not good for me. People are suffering due to the slow pace of work, and we must take drastic measures to make the road motorable and ease the plight of road users,” he said.
The governor also raised concerns about the drainage design, questioning its capacity to properly channel floodwater. He assured that adjustments would be made to ensure the drainage system effectively addresses flooding challenges.
“The second segment of the road, covering another 7 kilometers, will soon commence. But apart from the road itself, drainage is critical because it carries water out of the town. The current design stops midway, and the question is: where will the water go? We will review it to ensure it takes water out of town and desilts at the proper place. This is the only way to guarantee a durable road,” he explained.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to speedy completion of the project, assuring Edo people that their suffering will not be ignored.
