Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has summoned the contractor handling the reconstruction of the Benin–Sapele Road, citing concerns over the slow progress of work despite funds already released and issues surrounding the quality of drainage being constructed.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor made the decision after personally driving through the over 20-kilometre stretch of the project. During the inspection, he stopped at several points to assess the quality of the drains, pavement, and construction materials.
Governor Okpebholo expressed dissatisfaction with the pace of work, noting that although the ongoing construction was of good quality, its speed was unacceptable given the hardship faced by residents and motorists who rely on the road.
He said:
> “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 have to do something drastic to ensure that the road becomes motorable, reducing the plight of those who use it.”
The governor highlighted that the road’s second phase, spanning about 7 kilometres, would soon commence. However, he stressed that the drainage design must be reviewed to ensure water is properly channelled away from the town to prevent flooding and guarantee the durability of the road.
> “Drainage is important, and the current design stops midway in the town. The question is, where will the water go? We will revisit the design to ensure the final construction directs water out of the town to the right location for proper desilting. This will give us a good and lasting road after completion,” he said.
Okpebholo, who inspected areas such as Peanut Junction, Ogheghe Junction by Akenuwa Community, Ogheghe Road off Sapele Road, and Old Road—an area neglected by past administrations—assured residents of his commitment to fast-tracking the project.
> “Our people are suffering and crying, and we are out here this evening to check the level of work done and ensure speedy completion,” the governor added.
