Motorists and residents have appealed to the Edo State Government to urgently rehabilitate the Upper Siluko–Okada Road in Ovia North-East Local Government Area, describing the route as being in a deplorable condition that continues to cause hardship for commuters and residents.
The road, which serves as a major link between Upper Siluko, Udo, Okada and the Lagos–Benin Expressway, is also said by residents to provide access to the country home of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Dennis Idahosa.
Several road users who spoke on the condition of the road expressed frustration over its deterioration, saying they have repeatedly called on Governor Monday Okpebholo and other elected representatives to intervene.
A resident lamented that despite the area’s representation at the local, state and federal levels, the road has remained neglected.
“We have a local government chairman, members representing us at the State House of Assembly, the House of Representatives and the Senate, aside from the governor. We should also hold our elected representatives accountable,” the resident said.
Another commuter urged the state government to prioritise the reconstruction of the road, noting that it serves numerous communities and plays a vital role in transportation and economic activities.
“This road is more important because it serves more than 200 villages. Fixing it will bring relief to thousands of people who use it every day,” the commuter said.
Some residents also raised concerns over poor drainage along the corridor, arguing that inadequate drainage infrastructure has contributed to the rapid deterioration of the road.
Another motorist questioned why the road had remained in its current state since last year despite repeated appeals for government intervention.
“What will it cost the Edo State Government to fix this road? Its condition has been like this since last year,” the motorist said.
The residents called on the Okpebholo administration to prioritise the rehabilitation of the Upper Siluko–Okada Road, expressing hope that urgent action would ease transportation challenges, improve access to surrounding communities and boost economic activities in the area.
As of the time of filing this report, the Edo State Government had not publicly responded to the latest appeals by residents regarding the condition of the road.
