The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, on Thursday, lamented the appalling condition of federal roads in Edo State, describing the plight of motorists as both tragic and unacceptable.
Umahi decried the hardship faced daily by commuters, noting that the situation reflects years of neglect that can no longer be ignored.
According to him, no motorist could travel 100 kilometres on federal roads nationwide without encountering major challenges.
He noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu inherited an extensive backlog of failed road and bridge projects from past administrations, but stressed that the President has demonstrated courage, commitment and determination to reverse the situation.
Umahi stated this during the inspection of the Benin–Warri dual carriageway bypass in the company of the Edo State 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 no weak points are left unaddressed. He also appealed to Okpbholo to extend his intervention to an additional nine kilometres, praising his willingness to collaborate.
While acknowledging funding challenges following the suspension of NNPC tax credit funding, Umahi revealed that Tinubu has ordered the continuation of all such projects nationwide. He also hinted at a forthcoming federal intervention in Edo tagged ‘Coaster Highway,’ describing it 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 now pass through Edo.
“Other states benefiting from the project include Lagos (100km), Ogun and Ondo (82km), Akwa Ibom (65km), and Cross River (27km),” he stated.
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’s a reward for loyalty, leadership, and performance,” Umahi 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.
“I almost wept when I saw the number of vehicles, including trailers, that had broken down or fallen on this road. The situation demands urgent action, and I am glad the Minister has joined us to push for solutions,” the Governor said.
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.
“We are determined to fix this road. If I do my part and the Federal Government does its part, nobody will criticise the President. For our people to trust us, we must act. With more contractors on site, this project can be delivered on schedule,” Okpbholo affirmed.