FG Defies Benin-Asaba Highway Concessionaire, Orders Emergency Action

David Umahi, the Minister of Works, has mandated a rapid deployment of major contractors to three sections of the Benin-Asaba Federal Road, despite the road concessionaire's refusal to cooperate. This emergency action is being taken due to the severe deterioration of the road, which has caused significant inconvenience for motorists and residents in Edo State.

The concessionaire had rejected three proposed solutions from the federal government to intervene in the deteriorating situation, thus compelling the minister to take direct action. Umahi visited the road recently and dispatched contractors to address the most critical issues. However, the concessionaire subsequently reduced the number of its machines operating on the road after Umahi's departure, further exacerbating the problem.

Consequently, Umahi now directs the deployment of major contractors across all three segments of the Benin-Asaba Road to rectify the failed portions and alleviate the public's suffering. The cost of these emergency repairs will be shouldered by the federal government. In addition to these urgent repairs, Umahi has also ordered a complete redesign of the entire route for reconstruction with reinforced concrete pavement.