GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO INSPECTS ROAD PROJECTS, DEMANDS QUALITY AND SPEED FROM CONTRACTORS

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has intensified pressure on contractors handling critical road projects across the State, insisting on the delivery of durable infrastructure that reflects value for taxpayers’ money. In a statement signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Ituah, Okpebholo said his administration would remain relentless in monitoring contractors to guarantee results.

Fred Itua disclosed that the Governor undertook an extensive inspection tour of several road projects on August 31, 2024, including the 9.3km Illeh–Ukhun Road in Esan West, which is nearing completion. “What I saw two weeks ago was completely unacceptable and I made it clear that the contracts would be revoked if there was no improvement,” Okpebholo said. Itua noted that the Governor was pleased with the progress made so far.

The Governor’s convoy also made a stop at the ever-busy Moscow Junction along Sapele Road, Benin City, where he walked nearly three kilometres on foot. Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to enforce accountability and efficiency in project execution, saying, “Sapele Road has been a nightmare for motorists, but what we are seeing now gives us hope. We must ensure that taxpayer funds are translated into infrastructure that truly serves the people.”

The contractor handling sections of the projects, Engr. Ubani Stanley, admitted that the Governor’s stern stance had pushed the team to improve both the quality and pace of work. “The last time His Excellency came, he was visibly unhappy and charged us to improve or risk termination of the contract. We took that challenge seriously, and today he has seen the improvements,” Stanley said.

Okpebholo emphasized that road construction remains a critical part of his administration’s SHINE Agenda, assuring residents that more interventions would follow in other parts of the state. Fred Itua quoted Okpebholo as saying the administration would continue to prioritize the delivery of quality infrastructure that meets the needs of the people.