Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has warned contractors handling road projects in the state to deliver quality infrastructure that offers value for taxpayers’ money.
According to his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor gave the charge on Sunday during an inspection of ongoing projects across the state.
The statement noted that Okpebholo’s convoy stopped at the 9.3km Illeh–Ukhun Road in Esan West, which is nearing completion, before moving to the busy Moscow Junction along Sapele Road, Benin City.
According to the media aide, the governor trekked nearly three kilometres through Moscow, Limit, PZ, Agip, Okabere, Winners, and Peanut Junction to the Old Road, inspecting drainage, materials, and road foundations.
Okpebholo was quoted as saying his administration would continue to enforce accountability and efficiency.
“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. Today, I am pleased that there has been progress. My concern is to ensure Edo people get value for their money and that these projects are completed promptly to ease the gridlock that has tormented commuters for years,” he said.
He described the current pace and quality of work as commendable but stressed that contractors would remain under strict monitoring.
“Sapele Road has been a nightmare for motorists, but what we are seeing now gives us hope. We must ensure taxpayer funds are translated into infrastructure that truly serves the people,” he added.
The contractor handling sections of the project, Ubani Stanley, admitted that the governor’s tough stance had compelled improvements.
“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. We are committed to delivering the projects on schedule,” he said.
Okpebholo reiterated that road construction remains central to his administration’s SHINE Agenda, assuring residents of more interventions to ease mobility, open communities, and boost economic activity across the state.
