Benin Edo – The Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, has embarked on an extensive inspection of critical road projects across the state, underscoring his administration’s commitment to delivering durable infrastructure that provides value for taxpayers’ money.

The Governor’s tour, which began after his return from Irrua in Esan Central Local Government Area, focused on ensuring timely completion of projects to alleviate the persistent gridlock plaguing commuters.

According to the chief press secretary to the governor, Fred Itua in a statement on Monday, a key stop on the Governor’s itinerary was the 9.3km Illeh–Ukhun Road in Esan West, which is nearing completion.

The project, featuring installed drainage systems, asphalted sections, and stone base preparation for final surfacing, reflects the administration’s push for quality infrastructure.

Governor Okpebholo also inspected the busy Moscow Junction along Sapele Road in Benin City, walking nearly three kilometers through areas including Moscow, Limit, PZ, Agip, Okabere, Winners, and Peanut Junction, before concluding at the Old Road.

The inspection zeroed in on the quality of materials, drainage systems, and the solidity of road foundations.

Residents, motorists, and traders along the Sapele Road corridor cheered the Governor’s hands-on approach, expressing gratitude for his intervention in reconstructing the long-neglected route.

The Governor mingled with the crowd, reinforcing his administration’s focus on accountability and efficiency in project execution.

“My concern is to ensure that Edo people get value for their money and that these projects are completed promptly to ease the gridlock that has tormented commuters for years,” Governor Okpebholo declared during the tour.

He revealed that two weeks prior, he had threatened to revoke contracts for the Oghehe and Old Road projects due to substandard work.

However, he noted significant improvements since his warning, expressing satisfaction with the progress.

“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,” he said.

The Governor praised the speed and quality of the ongoing work, particularly along Sapele Road, which he described as a “nightmare for motorists.”

He reiterated that his administration would continue to monitor contractors closely to ensure results that meet the needs of Edo residents.

“We must ensure that taxpayer funds are translated into infrastructure that truly serves the people,” he added.

Governor Okpebholo emphasized that road construction is a cornerstone of his administration’s SHINE Agenda, aimed at improving mobility, opening up communities, and stimulating economic activity across the state.

He assured residents that more interventions are planned to address infrastructure challenges in other areas of Edo State.

As the Governor’s convoy moved through the project sites, the visible progress and his commitment to accountability offered hope to commuters and residents, who have long endured the challenges of dilapidated roads.

With his administration’s relentless oversight, Edo State appears poised for transformative infrastructure development that prioritizes the welfare of its people.