Residents and motorists in Edo State have expressed deep frustration over the deteriorating state of roads across Benin City and its surroundings, urging Governor Monday Okpebholo to prioritize urgent rehabilitation efforts. The poor condition of critical routes—including those leading to the Edo State Government House—has raised concerns not only about daily commuter hardships but also public safety and the government’s commitment to infrastructure development.
Many residents highlight how the onset of the rainy season has exacerbated existing challenges, with heavy rains causing widespread flooding and further damaging already crumbling roads. The resulting situation has become a significant source of inconvenience and danger for citizens, undermining economic activities and access to essential services.
John Osagie, a local resident, described the Government Reserved Area (GRA) roads as riddled with potholes and prone to severe flooding, calling on the Okpebholo administration to take decisive action to repair both state and federal roads within the state.
“The worsening road conditions and flood hazards have become a daily nightmare for Edo people,” Osagie said. He recalled a tragic incident when a 12-year-old pupil, Nathan Paul Spencer, lost his life after being swept away by floodwaters on his way to an important examination—a loss that has deeply affected the community.
“This heartbreaking tragedy, which occurred during heavy rains on July 5, 2025, could have been prevented if the government had addressed the flooding and road infrastructure issues more proactively,” Osagie added.
Motorist John Imade also called attention to the deplorable state of major roads within and around Benin City, including routes near the Edo NUJ secretariat and the axis connecting the Golf Course area to the Army formation close to the Government House, all suffering from persistent waterlogging.
The widespread calls for improved road infrastructure reflect a broader demand for accountability and tangible government action to safeguard lives, enhance mobility, and support economic resilience in Edo State.
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