Okpebholo Decries Slow Work on Benin–Sapele Road, Summons Contractor

Edo State Governor, Okpebholo Decries Slow Work on Benin–Sapele Road, Summons Contractors.

Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed frustration over the slow progress on the Benin–Sapele road project, despite contractors receiving funding for the work.

In a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor summoned contractors responsible for the state-funded portion of the road, demanding explanations for the delay and warning of possible sanctions.

Governor Okpebholo personally inspected over 20km of the road on Sunday evening. He stopped at multiple points including Peanut Junction, Ogheghe Junction, and Ogheghe Roadto examine the quality of the drainage, pavement, and construction materials. He also noted that Sapele Old Road near these areas also needs urgent repairs.

After the inspection, he stated:

“The work done so far is solid, but the pace is too slow. People are suffering, and this needs to change.”

He emphasized that the project’s completion is vital for easing the hardship faced by road users and reviving economic activities in the region.

The governor also raised concerns about the road’s drainage design, noting that the current layout ends in the middle of the town without a proper water outflow route. He assured residents that the drainage system will be redesigned to channel water away from residential areas, preventing future flooding.

He added that work on another 7km segment of the road would begin soon, and stressed that long-lasting infrastructure requires effective drainage solutions.

“Our people are suffering. We’re committed to ensuring this road is completed quickly and properly.”