Okpebholo intensifies road inspections, warns contractors on quality
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has intensified supervision of major road projects across the state, warning contractors to deliver durable infrastructure that reflects value for taxpayers’ money.
The Governor undertook an extensive inspection tour of projects on his return from Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area.
Among them was the 9.3km Illeh–Ukhun Road in Esan West, which is nearing completion with drainage already installed, some portions asphalted, and others layered with stone base for final surfacing.
His convoy also stopped at the busy Moscow Junction along Sapele Road, Benin City, where he walked nearly three kilometres through Moscow, Limit, PZ, Agip, Okabere, Winners and Peanut Junction before terminating at the Old Road.
The inspection focused on drainage systems, quality of materials and the solidity of the road foundation.
Residents, motorists and traders lining the stretch cheered as the Governor mingled with them, many praising his intervention in reconstructing the neglected route.
Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s determination to enforce accountability in project execution.
He disclosed that two weeks earlier, he had threatened to revoke the Oghehe and Old Road contracts over poor performance but noted marked improvements since then.
“What I saw two weeks ago was unacceptable and I made it clear the contracts would be revoked if there was no improvement,” he said.
“Today, I am pleased with the progress. Edo people must get value for their money and these projects must be completed promptly to ease the gridlock that has tormented commuters for years.”
The contractor handling sections of the project, Engr. Ubani Stanley, admitted that the Governor’s stern stance spurred the team to improve both pace and quality.
“The last time His Excellency came, he was visibly unhappy. We took his charge seriously and today he has seen the improvements. We are committed to delivering on schedule,” he said.
Governor Okpebholo stressed that road construction remains central to his SHINE Agenda, assuring residents that more interventions would follow across the state to open up communities, ease mobility and boost economic activities.
