The governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, has tasked contractors handling critical road projects across the State to deliver durable infrastructure that reflects value for taxpayers’ money.
Okpebholo gave the charge when he undertook an extensive inspection tour of several road projects on his return from Irrua, in Esan Central Local Government Area.
Among the projects visited was the 9.3km Illeh–Ukhun Road in Esan West, which is nearing completion with drainage already installed, sections asphalted, and others prepared with stone base for final surfacing.
The governor’s convoy also made a stop at the Moscow Junction along Sapele Road, Benin City, where he walked nearly three kilometres on foot, through Moscow, Limit, PZ, Agip, Okabere, Winners, and Peanut Junction, before ending at the Old Road.
The inspection focused on drainage systems, the quality of materials used, and the solidity of the road foundation. Residents, motorists, and traders lining the stretch cheered as the Governor mingled with them, many expressing gratitude for his intervention in reconstructing the long-neglected route.
Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to enforce accountability and efficiency in project execution. He disclosed that two weeks earlier, he had threatened to revoke the contracts of the Oghehe and Old Road projects over substandard work but noted significant improvements since then.
He added that the speed and quality of the work now being delivered were commendable, stressing that his Government would remain relentless in monitoring contractors to guarantee results.
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.
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 to open up communities, ease mobility, and stimulate economic activities.
