Rehabilitation work has resumed on the Benin-Sapele Road in Edo State following a lull caused by heavy rainfall, raising hopes of improved movement for motorists, traders and residents.
Construction workers and heavy-duty equipment returned to sections of the road on Thursday after activities were suspended due to unfavourable weather conditions.
The resumption followed an earlier assurance by Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, that contractors handling road projects across the three senatorial districts would return to their sites once the rains subsided.
The return of the workers has been welcomed by road users, who expressed satisfaction with the government’s commitment to the project.
Benjamin Danjuma, Foreman of the Earth Moving Section, explained that the persistent rainfall had disrupted construction activities, particularly the initial preparation of the road.
“The rain made it hard for us to continue, especially at the preparatory stage. As soon as the weather improved, we came back,” he said.
Danjuma disclosed that the project was currently at the first level of the stone-base phase, which serves as the foundation for the road.
He said the next stage would involve stabilisation using stone base and cement before the final concrete layer is applied.
“After this first level, we will move to the stabilisation stage, where we use stone base and cement. Then the final concrete layer will be laid,” he said.
Abdulmalik Usman, a resident and regular user of the road, commended the state government for undertaking the rehabilitation, noting that the previous condition of the road had caused difficulties for commuters.
“People suffered on this road when it was in a bad state. Now motorists can move more freely than before,” he said.
Similarly, a trader, Joy Obosheya, said the deteriorated road had negatively affected commercial activities in the area, adding that the resumption of work would make access to businesses easier.
“I am happy the contractor is back. The condition of the road affected our business, but now it is easier for customers to reach our shops,” she said.
A driver identified only as Kingsley also praised the governor for ensuring that construction resumed, saying motorists and pedestrians had endured prolonged difficulties using the affected section.
“Okpebholo has done well by making sure the contractor returned to site,” he said.
