Okpebholo Inspects Key Projects, Reaffirms Commitment to People-Centred Development

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has said his administration is giving a voice to the people through impactful projects aimed at improving livelihoods and enhancing safety across the state.

Speaking during an inspection of ongoing road projects, the governor noted that many communities had long been neglected, stressing that his administration is committed to addressing their needs through strategic infrastructural development.

According to him, “The people living in this area have been largely unheard over the years, but through these projects, we are speaking for them. If we don’t take action, who will? I am here to serve the people of Edo State.”

He added that the intervention aligns with the broader vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to bring hope and development to Nigerians, noting that the ongoing projects would stimulate economic activities in the benefiting communities.

Okpebholo expressed optimism that areas such as Ohoghobi and Evbhukhu would witness rapid development upon completion of the road, as improved access would attract businesses and boost local commerce.

Providing technical details, the site engineer, Engr. Frank Nwogu, disclosed that the project covers about 14 kilometres of roads, including Oghehe, Old Sapele Road, and adjoining routes.

He explained that the specific section at the Ohoghobi–Evbhukhu boundary spans 2.5 kilometres and is designed as an erosion control project.

He noted that the drainage system measures 1.2 metres by 1 metre with a thickness of 250mm reinforced concrete pavement, adding that the area had previously been waterlogged and largely impassable, especially during the rainy season.

“This is the first time any government is undertaking this project.The drainage work is about 80 percent completed, and the entire project is expected to be delivered by May 2026,” he said.

Residents of the area commended the governor for the intervention. Mr. Peter Onu described the project as a long-overdue development, noting that previous administrations had abandoned the road.

Similarly, Mrs. Kate Obayuwana expressed relief over the project, stating that the community had endured years of flooding before the government’s intervention. She added that the road would improve access to the Evbhukhu Market and surrounding areas.

Another resident, Mr. Mathew Ehikhuemen, recalled that the community had suffered flooding since 2000, commending the current administration for addressing the challenge.

During the inspection tour, the governor, accompanied by APC State Deputy Chairman Sylvester Aigboboh and other top officials, visited several project sites.

These included the second flyover bridge at Adesuwa Road, Agbonze and Iyore streets at Ohoghobi, Old Sapele Road, Camplink Road along Obagie-Ihiri Road, Evbhukhu–Amagba Road, as well as Okpagha-Amufi Road, the Amufi water retention point, and the boundary road between Iyanomo and Amufi communities.