Obaseki Only Left Failed Roads, Collapsed Infrastructure in 8 Years — Gov. Okpebholo

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has accused his predecessor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, of bequeathing to the state a legacy of failed roads and decaying infrastructure, vowing that his administration will embark on an aggressive rehabilitation drive to address the infrastructural deficit.

Governor Okpebholo made this assertion over the weekend during an inspection tour of several dilapidated roads in Edo Central Senatorial District. The roads inspected include the Onewa-Udomi-Ibhiolulu-Afada-Idumoza-Eko-Uwaya-Ewora axis, as well as critical portions of New Agbor Road and Illushin Road in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area.

Speaking during the inspection, the Governor lamented the condition of roads across Edo State, describing them as a direct consequence of eight years of infrastructural neglect under the Obaseki-led administration of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“For eight years, Edo State was under siege of bad governance, failed roads, and collapsed infrastructure. What we inherited from the past administration is nothing short of a disaster,” Governor Okpebholo said.

He further disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had charged state governors to take immediate action in fixing bad roads across the country, a directive his administration is now acting upon.

“I met with Mr. President about a week ago, and he instructed us as governors to urgently address the bad roads in our states. That is why I am out here in person to see these roads, feel the pains of the people, and ensure that we match our words with concrete action,” he said.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the Illushin and New Agbor Roads, Okpebholo noted that these critical arteries link Edo State to various parts of the country, including the Eastern and Northern regions.

“This New Agbor Road connects us to Agbor, Asaba, Onitsha, and other Eastern parts of Nigeria. Sadly, this road has become a death trap. Just a few days ago, a young girl lost her life here during a heavy downpour due to flooding. That incident pains us as a government. We cannot allow this to continue,” the Governor stressed.

Governor Okpebholo assured residents that his administration is already engaging with contractors for immediate palliative works to restore motorability and prevent further tragedies.

“We are not here for show. Contractors are on ground with us. We are getting firsthand information. Palliative works will begin immediately while we finalize comprehensive rehabilitation plans. The people of Edo State deserve better, and under my watch, they will get it,” he affirmed.

The Governor reiterated his commitment to deploying resources towards infrastructural revival across Edo North, Central, and South Senatorial Districts, adding that his administration will not rest until the state regains its status as a hub of development and economic prosperity.