Gov Okpebholo Intensifies Oversight On Road Projects, Demands Quality And Speed From Contractors

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has intensified oversight of ongoing road projects across the State, insisting that contractors must deliver durable infrastructure that reflects value for taxpayers’ money.

On August 31, 2024, the Governor embarked on an extensive inspection tour immediately after returning from Irrua in Esan Central Local Government Area.

Among the projects visited was the 9.3km Illeh–Ukhun Road in Esan West, now at an advanced stage with drainage completed, sections asphalted, and others layered with stone base ahead of final surfacing.

The Governor also stopped at the busy Moscow Junction axis of Sapele Road, Benin City. In an unusual move, he walked nearly three kilometres through Moscow, Limit, PZ, Agip, Okabere, Winners and Peanut Junction, ending at Old Road. The tour focused on drainage works, material quality, and road foundation strength. Traders, motorists, and residents along the route cheered as the Governor mingled with them, many expressing gratitude for his intervention on the long-abandoned stretch.

Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to accountability in project execution, disclosing that two weeks earlier he had threatened to revoke the Oghehe and Old Road contracts over poor standards, but noted significant improvement since then.

“What I saw two weeks ago was completely unacceptable and I made it clear that the contracts would be revoked if there was no improvement,” the Governor said. “Today, I am pleased with the progress. My concern is to ensure Edo people get value for their money and that these projects are completed promptly to ease the gridlock that has tormented commuters for years.”

He further stressed that while the pace of work had improved, his administration would remain vigilant to guarantee both speed and quality.

“Sapele Road has been a nightmare for motorists, but what we are seeing now gives us hope. We must ensure that taxpayer funds are translated into infrastructure that truly serves the people,” he added.

The contractor in charge, Engr. Ubani Stanley, admitted that the Governor’s tough stance had spurred improvements.

“The last time His Excellency came, he was visibly unhappy and charged us to improve or risk termination. We took that challenge seriously, and today he has seen the progress. We are committed to delivering on schedule,” he said.

Governor Okpebholo emphasized that road construction is a critical pillar of his administration’s SHINE Agenda, assuring residents that more interventions would soon follow in other parts of the State to boost mobility, open up communities, and stimulate economic growth.