Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has flagged off emergency palliative works on failed portions of federal roads spanning 9.61 kilometers across the Edo North Senatorial District.
The affected stretches include key road networks such as Auchi-Igarra-Aiyetoro-Uneme-Nekhua-Aiyegunle-Ikpeshi-Ibillo-Ekor-Ikiran-Oke, which serve as vital links within the senatorial zone.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony on Thursday, Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed the commitment of his administration, in partnership with the Federal Government, to rehabilitate critical infrastructure and improve the livelihoods of the people of Edo State. He credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and dedication to ensuring the people of Edo benefit from the dividends of democracy.
“I was with President Tinubu in Abuja last week, and he specifically asked me to address the potholes on both state and federal roads across Edo. What we are doing today is a result of that conversation and the president’s concern for Edo people,” the Governor stated.
He assured residents that security remains a top priority and declared a firm stance against criminality, especially kidnapping. “I assure you, the business of kidnapping will never thrive here. If I have to relocate to Edo North to flush out criminals from the forests, I will. This will not be left to security agencies alone — we will do it together,” he declared.
Addressing environmental concerns, the Governor also acknowledged the devastating gully erosion in Auchi and neighboring areas. He emphasized that proper procurement procedures must be followed to ensure effective intervention. “I will personally visit the erosion site and dispatch engineers for a technical assessment. Please be patient; we will find lasting solutions,” he added.
The Governor’s visit drew praise from stakeholders. Hon. Oloruntoba Bamidele commended the administration for prioritizing road rehabilitation, particularly on federal roads neglected by previous governments, noting that the repairs would significantly reduce criminal activity in the region.
Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, pledged continued legislative support for the Governor’s development agenda, promising collaboration to drive infrastructure and security improvements across the state.
Governor Okpebholo also inspected erosion-impacted communities, including Water Tanker Road in Auchi, Ughiogwa, and Ayogwiri-Uzairue, all located in Etsako West Local Government Area.
