KEY POINTS
- Presidency blames the contractor for the Benin-Agbor-Asaba road crisis.
- Gridlock stranded motorists and caused losses for traders.
- Works Minister David Umahi ordered urgent steps towards full reconstruction.
The Federal Government has blamed the contractor handling the Benin-Agbor-Asaba expressway for the prolonged traffic crisis that left motorists and truck drivers stranded for days.
The Presidency said the contractor failed to meet its obligations on the major highway, worsening the condition of the road and triggering severe congestion along the busy route connecting Edo and Delta states.
Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communications, said the contractor’s failure contributed significantly to the crisis.
Speaking on Channels Television on Wednesday, Dare said the situation exposed shortcomings in the contractor’s handling of the project.
He said several stakeholders, including the contractor, were present when the crisis was addressed, but added that the explanations offered by the contractor amounted to excuses for its failure to deliver.
According to Dare, the government has a responsibility to identify roads requiring rehabilitation and provide funding, while contractors are expected to execute the projects effectively.
Gridlock Traps Motorists for Days
The Benin-Agbor-Asaba road had reportedly remained in poor condition for nearly two weeks, causing severe traffic congestion and leaving motorists and commercial drivers stranded for extended periods.
The situation particularly affected truckers and traders transporting goods between Edo and Delta states. Businesses dealing in perishable products suffered significant losses as vehicles carrying food and other time-sensitive goods remained stuck in traffic.
The worsening situation sparked calls for urgent government intervention on the highway, which serves as an important transportation and trade corridor between the two states and other parts of the country.
Minister of Works David Umahi visited the affected section of the highway on Tuesday alongside National Assembly members and other stakeholders.
During the inspection, Umahi apologised to motorists affected by the prolonged gridlock and ordered measures to address the crisis.
Rather than relying solely on temporary palliative repairs, the minister directed that steps be taken towards the full reconstruction of the affected highway.