Governor Monday Okpebholo has said his administration is acting as the voice of the people of Edo State through strategic infrastructure projects aimed at improving livelihoods and enhancing safety across communities.
Speaking during an inspection of ongoing road projects in the state, the governor emphasized that many underserved communities lack representation, noting that his government is committed to addressing their needs through development initiatives.
“The people that live on this road are voiceless. They don’t have those who can speak for them, but we are their voice. Constructing this road for them is a thing of joy,” Okpebholo said. “If we don’t do it, who will? I am here to work for the people of Edo State, just as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working to bring hope to Nigerians.”
He added that ongoing projects, particularly road construction in areas such as Ohoghobi and Evbhukhu boundaries, would stimulate economic activities and open up the communities for growth and development.
Providing technical details, the site engineer, Frank Nwogu, disclosed that the project spans approximately 14 kilometres across Oghehe, Old Sapele Road, and adjoining routes. He explained that the specific section at Ohoghobi–Evbhukhu boundary covers 2.5 kilometres and is designed as an erosion control project.
“The drainage system measures 1.2 by 1 metre with a thickness of 250mm reinforced concrete pavement,” Nwogu said, noting that the area had long suffered from severe waterlogging, making it impassable, especially during the rainy season.
He added that drainage work is about 80 percent completed and that the project is expected to be delivered by May 2026.
Residents of the area expressed appreciation for the intervention, describing it as the first meaningful effort by any administration to address longstanding infrastructure challenges.
One resident, Peter Onu, said the road had been neglected for years, while another, Kate Obayuwana, noted that persistent flooding had plagued the community until the current administration intervened.
Similarly, Mathew Ehikhuemen said residents had endured flooding since 2000, praising the governor for what he described as a long-awaited rescue effort.
The inspection tour covered several project sites, including the second flyover bridge at Adesuwa Road, Agbonze and Iyore Streets at Ohoghobi, Old Sapele Road, Camplink Road along Obagie Ihriri Road, Evbhukhu–Amagba Road, as well as Okpagha-Amufi Road and the Iyanomo-Amufi boundary.
The governor was accompanied by the State Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sylvester Aigboboh, and other top government officials.
