Okpebholo Demands Quality, Speed From Road Contractors

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has intensified pressure on contractors handling critical road projects across the State, insisting on delivering durable infrastructure that reflects value for taxpayers’ money.

On August 31, 2024, the Governor returned from Irrua, in the Esan Central Local Government Area, and undertook an extensive inspection tour of several road projects.

Among the projects visited was the 9.3km Illeh–Ukhun Road in Esan West, which is nearing completion. Drainage has already been installed, sections have been asphalted, and others have been prepared with a stone base for final surfacing.

The Governor’s convoy also made a stop at the ever-busy Moscow Junction along Sapele Road, Benin City, where he walked nearly three kilometres on foot, through Moscow, Limit, PZ, Agip, Okabere, Winners, and Peanut Junction, before ending at the Old Road.

The inspection focused on drainage systems, the quality of materials used, and the solidity of the road foundation. Residents, motorists, and traders lining the stretch cheered as the Governor mingled with them, many expressing gratitude for his intervention in reconstructing the long-neglected route.

During the tour, Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to enforce accountability and efficiency in project execution. He disclosed that two weeks earlier, he had threatened to revoke the contracts of the Oghehe and Old Road projects over substandard work, but significant improvements have been noted 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 that there has been progress. My concern is to ensure that Edo people get value for their money and that these projects are completed promptly to ease the gridlock that has tormented commuters for years.”

Okpebholo added that the speed and quality of the work delivered were commendable, stressing that his government would relentlessly monitor contractors to guarantee results.

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

The contractor handling sections of the project, Engr. Ubani Stanley admitted that the Governor’s stern stance had pushed the team to improve the quality and pace of work.

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

Governor Okpebholo emphasised that road construction remained a critical part of his administration’s SHINE Agenda, assuring residents that more interventions will be undertaken in other parts of the state to open up communities, ease mobility, and stimulate economic activities.