Benin-Sapele Road: Umahi apologises for commuters’ hardship, orders contractors’ arrest.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, has apologised to commuters and residents affected by the deteriorating condition of the Benin-Sapele Road, assuring them that urgent measures are being taken to restore the highway.

Speaking during an inspection of major federal roads in Edo State on Tuesday, Umahi acknowledged the hardship experienced by motorists and residents in Edo and Delta states due to the poor state of the road.

The minister commended youths in the affected communities for remaining peaceful despite the challenges posed by the road’s condition, noting that their restraint helped maintain order.

He expressed dissatisfaction with the pace and quality of work on the project, accusing the concessionaire handling the road of lacking the technical capacity required for the assignment.

Umahi also condemned the removal of asphalt from federal roads without approval, describing the practice as an act that damages public infrastructure. He directed ministry officials nationwide to take action against any contractor or concessionaire found engaging in such activities without authorisation.

According to him, the Federal Government has a responsibility to ensure that only competent firms are entrusted with major infrastructure projects. He added that President Bola Tinubu had directed the Ministry of Works to take immediate steps to ease the suffering of road users and restore the road to a motorable condition.

The minister explained that while concession agreements are protected by law, government intervention may be necessary where public interest and the welfare of citizens are at stake.

He assured residents and motorists that rehabilitation work on the road would be prioritised, stressing that the safety and well-being of the people remain a key concern of the government.

Umahi also praised Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for supporting efforts to improve infrastructure and rehabilitate federal roads within the state.

In his remarks, Okpebholo appealed to residents and youths in the affected areas to remain patient as steps are being taken to address the challenges on the road. He noted that Edo’s position as a major transit route makes the condition of its roads important to economic activities across several regions of the country.

Meanwhile, the concessionaire attributed delays in construction work to persistent rainfall, saying temporary repairs were carried out to improve traffic flow while more extensive work continues. The company stated that efforts were also made to expand sections of the road and address numerous potholes to ease movement for commuters.