Residents and traders voice frustration over Benin-Sapele road repairs

‎Residents, commuters, and business owners along the Benin-Sapele Road on Monday expressed frustration over the slow progress of the road repairs project, which began in 2018 but have faced repeated setbacks and delays.
‎
‎The stretch around the bypass to the Ologbo-Koko junction has become particularly problematic, with the initial federal government contract revoked due to poor workmanship. Since moving to Ogheghe in 2022, Igbinovia Lucky, a resident, called commuting a “nightmare”, explaining how what should be a 30 to 45-minute trip now takes several hours, especially during evening traffic.The delays have impacted daily life and commerce.
‎
‎Another commercial driver on the Benin-Warri route, said the poor road condition has reduced the number of daily trips for himself and other drivers.
‎
‎A vulcanizer stationed along the road, reported a sharp decline in customers due to the traffic and poor road access.
‎
‎The Edo State government intervened to accelerate repairs, with Governor Monday Okpebholo recently inspecting improvements, including completed surface drains and underground channels designed to reduce flooding. He expressed optimism that the Ogheghe Road project would finish by December 2025.
‎
‎Meanwhile, Minister of Works David Umahi has promised quick repair work, but residents remain skeptical pending noticeable progress.
‎
‎