Benin-Sapele road project delay upsets Governor Okpebholo, who warns contractors to accelerate work or face consequences
Benin-Sapele road project delays have drawn the ire of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, who expressed deep frustration over the slow pace of work, despite full financial mobilisation of contractors by the government.
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Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Monday, the governor summoned the contractors handling the state-funded segment of the road, demanding an explanation for the sluggish progress — or face serious sanctions.
The governor personally inspected over 20 kilometers of the ongoing project on Sunday evening, navigating through heavy gridlock along the route.
Stops were made at key points including Peanut Junction, Ogheghe Junction by Akenuwa Community, and Ogheghe Road — areas that also require urgent rehabilitation.
“I have inspected what they are doing and the work is solid and good,” Okpebholo said. “But the problem is the job is moving at a slow pace and people are suffering due to this.”
Okpebholo emphasized that his administration is prioritizing the well-being of Edo residents, vowing to take drastic action to speed up the road’s completion.
He stressed that the slow progress is not only inconveniencing road users but also stalling economic activity in the region.
He also raised concerns about the drainage system design, which he claimed ends prematurely in the middle of the town, potentially worsening the area’s flooding issues.
“Drainage is important. The design stopped at the middle of the town. The question is — where will the water go?” he asked. “We’ll revisit the design to ensure water is properly channeled out of town.”
The second phase of the project, a 7km stretch, is expected to begin soon. But Okpebholo made it clear that without effective drainage, the durability of the road will be compromised.
“When this is done, it will enable us to have a good and lasting road after the completion.”
The governor acknowledged the hardship faced by Edo people and pledged an accelerated response.
“Our people are suffering and crying,” he said. “We are out here this evening to check the level of work done and ensure speedy completion.”
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This latest move by Governor Okpebholo signals a more assertive approach to infrastructure delivery — one that aims to blend quality, speed, and community welfare.
