ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on the contractor handling the rehabilitation of the Benin-Asaba highway to accelerate work on the project, following the hardship motorists are facing due to the failed portions of the road.
Speaking through the State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Riverine Roads), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, Oborevwori emphasized the urgent need for the contractor to address the deteriorated sections, particularly at Ezenei Junction in Asaba. Addressing journalists at the site on Thursday, Aniagwu disclosed that the governor had been deeply concerned about the situation, which has caused significant disruption for road users.
“Governor Oborevwori has been very much disturbed about the condition of the highway, especially the failed portions at Ezenei Junction,” Aniagwu stated. “Before now, he asked me to assess the situation and explore ways to make the road passable for our people. However, we found out that the project was already under contract by the Federal Government, which limited our ability to intervene directly.”
Aniagwu explained that efforts to pressure the contractor into speeding up the rehabilitation process have been ongoing. However, logistical challenges, including the delay of essential materials, have hindered progress.
“We’ve continued to press the contractor to expedite the work,” Aniagwu continued. “The materials needed for the repairs were stuck along the Auchi axis due to bad roads, preventing the trucks from proceeding. Fortunately, the contractor has managed to source materials from Benin while awaiting the rest from Auchi.”
He reassured the public that equipment and additional resources would soon be deployed to the site as materials become available. Aniagwu appealed to motorists to remain patient as work progresses to address the issues.
“We understand the frustrations of road users, and we appreciate their patience,” Aniagwu said. “The contractor is now mobilizing with more materials and trucks arriving. Once this portion of the road is completed, it will greatly ease access to the Eastern region, which this highway serves.”
Aniagwu also noted that the repairs would relieve pressure on Delta State’s internal roads, which have been bearing the brunt of diverted traffic. He added that fixing the road would restore the area’s appearance and reduce the heavy congestion caused by the current condition of the highway.
“As you can see, the stretch of trucks stuck along this corridor shows the volume of traffic on this route,” Aniagwu observed. “We are optimistic that the Federal Government’s contractor will complete the repairs quickly to alleviate the suffering motorists are experiencing.”
The Benin-Asaba highway, a crucial route for travelers heading to the eastern parts of the country, has long been a source of concern for the Delta State government due to its deteriorating condition and its impact on the local population. Governor Oborevwori’s administration has been pushing for faster action to ensure the road is repaired and reopened as soon as possible.
