FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Minister of Works, Engr David Umahi, yesterday, lamented the appalling condition of federal roads in Edo State, describing the plight of motorists as tragic and unacceptable.
Decrying the hardship faced daily by commuters, the minister noted that the situation reflects years of neglect that can no longer be ignored, adding that no motorist could travel 100 kilometres on federal roads nationwide without encountering major challenges.
He noted that President Bola Tinubu inherited an extensive backlog of failed road and bridge projects from past administrations, but stressed that he has demonstrated courage, commitment and determination to reverse the situation.
Umahi stated this during the inspection of Benin-Warri dual carriageway bypass in the company of Governor Monday Okpehbolo.
He explained that Levante executed only four kilometres of reinforced concrete pavement in stable sections of the road, neglecting the worst segments despite repeated warnings.
“The contract was terminated after months of delay and poor work. We appealed to Governor Okpbholo to take over the first 23 kilometres, which he promptly awarded to CBC. The quality of their work is commendable,” Umahi disclosed.
The minister added that the federal government has directed the new contractors to reinforce the road base, elevate the carriageway and ensure that no weak points are left unaddressed. He also appealed to Okpbholo to extend his intervention to additional nine kilometres, praising his willingness to collaborate.
While acknowledging funding challenges, following the suspension of NNPC tax credit funding, Umahi revealed that President Tinubu had ordered the continuation of such projects nationwide.
He also hinted at a forthcoming federal intervention in Edo tagged ‘Coaster Highway,’ which he described as a gift to the state.
The minister announced that the president has directed that 100 kilometres by two lanes of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway will pass through Edo.
“Other states benefitting from the project include Lagos (100km), Ogun and Ondo (82km), Akwa Ibom (65km) and Cross River (27km).
“Originally, Edo was not on the route. But the president, impressed by your governor’s commitment to infrastructure, insisted that the state must benefit. It is a reward for loyalty, leadership and performance,” he explained.
In his remarks, the governor commended the minister for his prompt response to Edo’s infrastructural challenges.
He recalled his recent personal inspection of the road and how he was disturbed by the sight of multiple accidents and stranded motorists.
Okpbholo stressed that quality road infrastructure is not only essential for the people’s welfare, but also critical for the ruling party’s credibility.
He assured that the ongoing work, though slow due to concrete technology, will provide a lasting solution and should be completed before the next rainy season.
