Benin-Sapele Road: Umahi Blows Hot, Orders Arrest Of Contractors

The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has ordered the arrest of any contractor or concessionaire found removing asphalt from federal roads without official approval.

Umahi issued the directive on Tuesday in Benin, Edo State, while inspecting the condition of the Benin-Sapele Road and other major federal roads in the state.

The minister’s action followed concerns over the deteriorating condition of the Benin-Sapele Road, which has reportedly subjected commuters, residents and businesses along the route to significant hardship.

During the inspection, Umahi apologised to residents and road users over the poor state of the road while commending youths in the area for remaining calm despite the difficulties caused by the situation.

The minister expressed disappointment with the concessionaire handling the road, questioning the company’s technical capacity to execute the project effectively.

Umahi said he had personally witnessed the removal of asphalt from sections of the road during an earlier inspection with Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo. He said he subsequently instructed the contractor to discontinue the practice.

According to the minister, contractors are not permitted to remove asphalt from federal roads without proper authorisation from the Ministry of Works, describing unauthorised removal as an act capable of destroying public infrastructure.

He therefore directed all ministry controllers to arrest any contractor or concessionaire caught removing asphalt from federal roads without approval.

Umahi also criticised the concessionaire’s approach to the project, alleging that its inadequate technical capacity had worsened the difficulties faced by commuters and residents.

He stressed that the Federal Government must ensure that companies awarded road projects possess the required technical expertise and capacity to deliver them effectively.

The minister further questioned the concessionaire’s record of competence and integrity before it assumed responsibility for the Benin-Agbor Road project.

Umahi disclosed that President Bola Tinubu was aware of the difficulties being experienced by road users and had directed the Ministry of Works to take necessary measures to restore the road and reduce the hardship faced by residents and commuters.