Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, on Wednesday lamented the deplorable condition of federal roads in the state, describing the suffering of motorists as tragic and unacceptable.
During an inspection of the Benin–Warri dual carriageway bypass, both leaders expressed concern over the daily hardship faced by commuters, stressing that the situation reflects years of neglect that can no longer be overlooked.
Governor Okpebholo and Umahi, however, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his quick intervention and determination to reverse decades of infrastructural decay, while stressing the urgency of delivering durable solutions.
Umahi noted that no motorist could travel 100 kilometres on federal roads nationwide without encountering major challenges.
He explained that President Tinubu inherited a huge backlog of failed road and bridge projects, yet has shown courage and commitment to addressing them.
“President Tinubu met an overwhelming situation in terms of roads and bridges. You can’t travel 100 kilometres on federal roads without encountering serious difficulties. But the President is showing resolve, and Nigerians are already commending his efforts,” Umahi said.
He added that prominent Nigerians, including Arise Television Chairman, Nduka Obaigbena, had praised the administration’s efforts, stressing that public acceptance shows the interventions are already resonating with citizens.
On the Benin–Warri highway, Umahi disclosed that the contract earlier awarded to Levante Construction Company under the NNPC Tax Credit Scheme was terminated after the company delivered only four kilometres of reinforced pavement on stable sections while abandoning the worst portions.
“We appealed to Governor Okpebholo to take over the first 23 kilometres, which he promptly awarded to CBC. The quality of their work is commendable,” Umahi stated, adding that the federal government had directed new contractors to strengthen the road base, elevate the carriageway, and eliminate weak points.
Umahi further encouraged contractors to speed up construction, even at night, and directed the Federal Controller of Works in Edo State to provide photographic progress updates. He assured that Tinubu’s concrete-based road projects are designed to last between 50 and 100 years.
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Governor Okpebholo, in his remarks, recalled his recent personal inspection of the Benin–Warri highway where he was disturbed by multiple accidents and stranded vehicles.
“I almost wept when I saw the number of vehicles, including trailers, that had broken down or fallen on this road. The situation demands urgent action, and I am glad the Minister has joined us to push for solutions,” he said.
Okpebholo stressed that quality road infrastructure is vital not only for citizens’ welfare but also for the credibility of the ruling party. He assured that the current work, though slow because of concrete technology, would be completed before the next rainy season.
Later in the evening, a special Independence Day Dinner was held at the Edo Government House Villa in Benin City in honour of the Minister. The event, which marked Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, was attended by former deputy governors, lawmakers, APC leaders, and traditional stakeholders.
At the dinner, Umahi announced on behalf of President Tinubu the approval of a 100-kilometre stretch of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway to pass through Edo State, a state not originally included in the alignment.
“Mr. President has directed that 100 kilometres by two lanes of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway must now pass through Edo. This is a special gift to the people of Edo,” Umahi said to thunderous applause.
Other states benefitting from the project include Lagos (100km), Ogun and Ondo (82km), Akwa Ibom (65km), and Cross River (27km). Umahi explained that Tinubu’s decision to include Edo was a reward for the governor’s leadership and loyalty.
Governor Okpebholo hailed the President for the surprise inclusion, calling it a turning point in the state’s infrastructure journey.
“The President treats me like a son. Whenever we request support, he responds with express approval. This 100km coastal highway is proof of his love for our state,” he said.
He also praised Umahi, describing him as the best Minister of Works Nigeria has ever had.
Crediblenewsng.com
