The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has issued a formal apology to commuters and residents of Edo and Delta States over the deplorable condition of the Benin-Sapele Road, while ordering the immediate arrest of the contractor and concessionaire responsible for the project.
Speaking on Tuesday during an inspection tour of major roads in Benin, Umahi expressed disappointment with the concessionaire’s handling of the project, accusing the company of lacking the technical competence required for execution.
The minister’s directive also extends to any contractor found removing asphalt from federal roads without authorisation, describing such acts as “destruction of public infrastructure.”
Federal Government Takes Decisive Action
Umahi commended Edo youths for their restraint despite the hardship caused by the road’s condition, noting that their patience had prevented a potential breakdown of law and order.
The minister revealed that President Bola Tinubu had taken note of road users’ suffering and directed the Ministry of Works to restore the road and ease the people’s burden.
“While concession agreements are governed by law, the government can invoke overriding public interest where necessary to protect citizens and critical infrastructure,” Umahi stated.
He criticised the concessionaire’s technical capacity, alleging that the company had no reputation for competence before securing the Benin-Agbor Road project.
The minister directed all ministry controllers to arrest any contractor or concessionaire found removing asphalt from federal roads without approval, reaffirming that such practices are strictly prohibited.
Edo Governor Appeals for Patience
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo appealed to residents and youths to exercise restraint, recalling President Tinubu’s previous commitment to reconstruct the Benin-Ekpoma road—a promise he said had been fulfilled.
“Edo’s strategic location makes it a gateway to several regions. Unrest in the state could have consequences for the entire country,” Okpebholo warned.
He thanked the minister for his intervention and commended the federal government’s renewed commitment to infrastructure development.
Contractor Cites Weather Challenges
In response, the concessionaire’s Chief Executive Officer, Samuel Daramola, attributed the slow pace of work to heavy rains, stating that the company had resorted to palliative measures to allow traffic movement.
Daramola maintained that the company expanded the road upon taking over the project and began palliative works to address numerous potholes, making access easier for commuters.
Umahi assured affected commuters, residents, and road users of immediate rehabilitation in line with the President’s directive, emphasising that the government would prioritise public welfare and safety.
The minister thanked Governor Okpebholo for his commitment to infrastructure development and for intervening in the rehabilitation of federal roads in Edo State.