Okpebholo Positions Infrastructure Drive as Voice of the People

Kingsley Ohens reporting

The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to grassroots development, stating that ongoing infrastructure projects across the state represent a direct expression of the people’s needs and aspirations.

Governor Okpebholo made this assertion during an inspection tour of critical road projects, emphasizing that his government is prioritizing underserved communities that have historically lacked representation and access to essential infrastructure. According to him, the administration is effectively “speaking for the people through projects” designed to enhance mobility, stimulate economic activity, and improve overall living standards.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the ongoing works at Ohoghobi and Evbhukhu boundaries, the governor noted that the intervention would unlock economic potential in the area. He explained that improved road connectivity would catalyze development, attract investments, and foster commercial activities in previously inaccessible communities.

The governor further aligned his developmental agenda with the broader national vision of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that both state and federal governments are working in tandem to deliver tangible benefits to citizens and restore public confidence in governance.

Technical details of the project were provided by the site engineer, Engr. Frank Nwogu, who disclosed that the initiative encompasses approximately 14 kilometers of road construction spanning Oghehe, Old Sapele Road, and adjoining areas. He explained that the specific stretch between Ohoghobi and Evbhukhu boundary covers 2.5 kilometers and incorporates extensive erosion control measures.

According to the engineer, the project features reinforced concrete pavement with a drainage system measuring 1.2 meters by 1 meter and a thickness of 250 millimeters. He described the area as a major water retention zone that has remained largely impassable for years, particularly during the rainy season. He added that the intervention marks the first significant governmental effort to address the longstanding infrastructural deficit in the locality, with completion scheduled for May 2026.

Residents of the affected communities expressed strong support for the project, describing it as transformative. Community members, including Mr. Peter Onu, Ms. Kate Obayuwana, and Mr. Mathew Ehikhuemen, commended the governor for addressing decades of neglect, noting that persistent flooding and poor road conditions had severely impacted daily life and economic activities since the early 2000s.

As part of the inspection exercise, Governor Okpebholo, accompanied by senior government officials including the State Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sylvester Aigboboh, evaluated progress on multiple infrastructure sites. These included the second flyover bridge at Adesuwa Road, road networks linking Agbonze and Iyore Street, Camplink Road along Obagie Ihriri axis, the Evbhukhu–Amagba corridor, as well as flood control points and boundary roads connecting Iyanomo and Amufi communities.

The administration maintains that these coordinated interventions are integral to its broader development blueprint aimed at enhancing connectivity, mitigating environmental challenges, and driving inclusive growth across Edo State.

This position was formally communicated by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, in an official statement issued on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.