Okpebholo Receives Commendation from Sapele Road Bypass Communities Over Benin–Sapele–Ogheghe Road Reconstruction

Okpebholo Receives Commendation from Sapele Road Bypass Communities Over Benin–Sapele–Ogheghe Road Reconstruction

…..Residents Pledge Support Ahead of 2028 Governorship Election

Residents and property owners along the Benin–Sapele Road corridor, operating under the umbrella of the Sapele Road Bypass Axis Group (SARBAG), have commended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his decisive intervention in the reconstruction of the long-neglected Benin–Sapele–Ogheghe section of the Benin–Sapele–Warri Road.

The group noted that the ongoing reconstruction has significantly improved vehicular movement and revived economic activities along the Sapele Road bypass axis, which had suffered years of infrastructural decay.
According to residents, the improved road conditions have boosted commercial activities, eased transportation challenges, and restored confidence among traders and investors across the affected communities.

In appreciation of the intervention, members of SARBAG assured Governor Okpebholo of their support for a second term in office, pledging to back his re-election bid in the 2028 governorship election.

Landlords and residents described the project as a comprehensive overhaul of a critical federal highway, recently undertaken by the Edo State Government in collaboration with the Federal Government. They noted that upon completion, the road will enhance connectivity between Edo State and other states in the South-South and South-East geopolitical zones, while stimulating inter-state commerce and mobility.

Prior to the governor’s intervention, socio-economic activities along the Benin–Sapele–Warri Federal Road had been largely crippled due to its deplorable condition. Media reports indicate that over 20 communities along the corridor had staged repeated protests over the years to draw attention to the neglect by successive administrations.

However, the narrative surrounding the road—widely regarded as a strategic economic artery in southern Nigeria—is now changing, as visible progress replaces years of deterioration.

Governor Okpebholo’s decision to commence reconstruction of the road effectively dispelled the long-standing perception under the previous administration that the route was solely the responsibility of the Federal Government. The project spans several communities and junctions, including Ekea, Peanut, PZ, Mousco, Evbukhu, Ogheghe, and adjoining areas.

Motorists and commuters now enjoy improved sections of the road constructed with modern concrete pavement technology. The project also incorporates surface and underground drainage systems designed to mitigate flooding, reduce travel time, and enhance road durability.

At the Ogheghe axis, the Edo State Government is also undertaking the construction of internal roads and the rehabilitation of the old Sapele Road, supported by hydrological infrastructure aimed at addressing perennial flood challenges in the area.

Speaking to journalists, the Chairman of SARBAG, Mr. Daniel Omoregbe, alongside the Secretary, Pastor Moses Omo-Osagiede, and the Treasurer, Comrade Desmond Ekhator, said the situation along the axis has improved remarkably since the commencement of the project.

They explained that beyond road reconstruction, the administration has demonstrated a holistic approach by integrating drainage systems to ensure long-term sustainability.

“We thank Governor Monday Okpebholo for his timely intervention. The changes are visible. The road is now motorable, vehicular movement is smoother, and business activities have significantly improved. We are fortunate to have a governor who listens to the people,” they said.

A motorist, Hon. Lion Joseph Ogieva, also praised the governor for addressing the long-standing challenges at the Ogheghe axis, describing the road as one that had remained in a deplorable state for several years.

He stated that the performance of the current administration, particularly in road infrastructure, has surpassed that of the previous government, adding that residents of the Sapele Road axis have benefited immensely from the project.

According to him, the road—once dismissed as a purely federal responsibility—is now receiving the attention it deserves, a development residents will not forget in 2028.

“For his performance, I will be at the forefront of his re-election campaign in 2028. We cannot change a winning team. This road, fixed through collaboration between the Edo State Government and the Tinubu administration, serves as a vital gateway to the South-South and South-East and will further boost economic activities in Edo State,” Ogieva said.

As residents continue to enjoy the benefits of the Edo State infrastructure renewal drive under Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, they have been encouraged to sustain their cooperation and support to enable the administration fully implement its people-focused programmes and policies.