Governor Okpebholo Fumes Over Delay on Benin-Sapele Road Project, Summons Contractors

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has voiced strong dissatisfaction over the slow progress of work on the ongoing Benin-Sapele Road reconstruction, despite the release of funds to the contractors.

In a statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo summoned the contractors handling the section funded by the Edo State Government to explain the delay or face severe consequences.

The governor personally inspected the over 20-kilometre stretch of the project on Sunday evening, navigating through heavy traffic along the road and stopping at multiple points to assess the quality of materials, pavements, and drainage systems being used.

Key inspection stops included Peanut Junction, Ogheghe Junction near Akenuwa Community, and Ogheghe Road off Sapele Old Road — areas he noted as needing urgent attention.

Following the inspection, Governor Okpebholo expressed concern for the suffering of road users and assured residents that his administration is committed to accelerating the project’s completion to ease traffic congestion and boost local economic activity.

“I’ve seen the work being done, and while it is of good quality, the pace is far too slow, and our people are bearing the brunt of this delay,” the governor said. “We must act decisively to ensure the road becomes motorable as soon as possible.”

He also raised questions about the current drainage design, which he criticized for ending prematurely within the town, thereby failing to effectively channel water away.

“The drainage design is flawed—it stops in the middle of town. Where is the water expected to go?” Okpebholo asked. “We’re going to revisit the entire drainage plan to ensure water is properly directed away from the area, which is essential for a durable road.”

He further revealed that a second segment of the road, measuring 7km, is set to begin soon. However, he emphasized that without a functional drainage system, roadworks would be unsustainable.

“Our people are suffering and crying out,” the governor added. “We came out here this evening to see the work firsthand and to push for its rapid completion.”