The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has announced plans to inspect the Benin-Asaba Road on Tuesday following mounting complaints over its deteriorating condition and the resulting traffic gridlock.
Umahi disclosed this at the flag-off ceremony for the dualisation of the Ibadan-Ijebu-Ode Road, according to a video shared by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Francis Nwaze.
The minister said he would meet with independent engineers, the concessionaire handling the road project and the Edo State Government to determine immediate steps to address the situation.
“Tomorrow, we are off to Benin-Asaba. I want Nigerians to be assured that when we get there, we’ll solve that problem,” Umahi said.
He attributed the situation to the Federal Government’s efforts to involve private investors in the development and rehabilitation of major roads through concession arrangements.
“It’s not caused by Ministry of Works; it’s caused by, you know, our attempt to involve private sector in road development, as it’s done in other places,” he said.
Umahi alleged that the concessionaire handling the project removed more than 30 kilometres of asphalt but failed to complete the rehabilitation work, worsening the condition of the highway.
“But this concessionaire came and removed over 30 km of the asphalt and threw it away and threw it in the yard and left. And today, people are suffering,” he said.
The minister said the planned intervention would involve discussions with the independent engineers, the concessionaire, the ministry’s legal team and the Edo State Government.
“So, there’s going to be a robust engagement, even with the governor of Edo State,” he added.
The Benin-Agbor section of the highway has recently come under criticism as residents, motorists and transport operators complain about prolonged traffic congestion and the poor state of the road.
The situation has reportedly caused some travellers to spend extended periods on the road, with videos circulating online showing motorists trapped in lengthy traffic queues.
Umahi also announced that the Minister of State for Works would inspect the Ifaki-Ado-Ekiti Road, where a collapsed section has reportedly caused severe congestion and left articulated vehicles stranded.
According to him, President Bola Tinubu directed the ministry in 2024 to take over the project following an assessment of its condition.
He added that the road had subsequently been redesigned and that the Minister of State would submit a report after the inspection.
“We have redesigned it, and when he goes, he’s going to bring up a report, which we will submit to Mr President,” Umahi said.
