Governor Okpebholo Insists on Quality, Demands Durable Roads from Contractors

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has intensified his government’s push for high-quality infrastructure, warning contractors to adhere to strict standards or risk having their contracts terminated. The Governor issued the stern directive during an unannounced inspection tour of several road projects across the state on Monday.

Governor Okpebholo, who was sworn in last November, expressed his administration’s commitment to providing long-lasting road networks for the people of Edo State. During his inspection, he revealed that he had previously threatened to revoke the contracts of the Oghehe and Old Road projects due to their slow pace and what he described as “unacceptable” quality.

“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,” Governor Okpebholo said. “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.”

The inspection tour included the 9.3km Illeh–Ukhun Road in Esan West, which the Governor noted was nearing completion. He also took a three-kilometre walk from the busy Moscow Junction along Sapele Road in Benin City to inspect the quality of materials, drainage systems, and the solidity of the road foundations. Residents and motorists along the route reportedly cheered the Governor, many expressing hope that his personal supervision would lead to the end of the gridlock that has plagued commuters for years.

In a show of compliance, one of the contractors, Engr. Ubani Stanley, admitted that the Governor’s tough stance had compelled his team to improve their performance. “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,” the contractor was quoted as saying.

The Governor reiterated that road construction remains central to his administration’s SHINE Agenda, assuring residents that more interventions would follow across the state to open up communities, ease mobility, and stimulate economic activities.