Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Minister of Works, David Umahi, have jointly expressed concern over the poor state of federal roads in the state.
During an inspection tour of major roads, including the Benin–Auchi highway and the Benin–Sapele road, the leaders described their condition as deplorable and hazardous for motorists. Umahi revealed that several of the contracts had been abandoned by contractors, while others had dragged on for over a decade due to inadequate funding and poor supervision.
Governor Okpebholo noted that the state government had stepped in with palliative repairs to save lives and facilitate movement, but insisted that federal intervention was urgently needed.
The Works Minister, while acknowledging the efforts of the Edo government, assured that President Tinubu had directed his ministry to prioritise road projects in the state. He added that new contractors would soon be mobilised to sites to ensure quick completion.
Residents who spoke during the inspection expressed frustration over the rising number of accidents, prolonged travel time, and loss of goods. They urged the Federal Government to act swiftly before the situation worsens.