The Iruekpen–Ozalla–Sabo Road in the Owan axis of Edo State has reportedly deteriorated badly, leaving motorists stranded and heavy-duty trucks stuck in deep mud.
The situation was highlighted by MONITNG in a post on X, which called for urgent intervention from the Edo State Government and the Federal Ministry of Works.
The post, accompanied by images of the affected road, was addressed to Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo and described the route as a “nightmare”.
“Dear Governor @m_akpakomiza
This is the Iruekpen–Ozalla–Sabo Road in the Owan axis of Edo State, now a nightmare.
The picture taken today tells a painful story. Heavy-duty trucks are stuck in deep mud, vehicles struggle to pass, and travellers are left stranded for hours. What should be a vital road connecting communities has deteriorated to the point where movement is becoming a daily battle.”
MONITNG said the deteriorating road was affecting economic activities across the Owan axis, with farmers struggling to transport produce and traders facing increased transportation challenges.
It added that businesses were losing money, vehicles were being damaged and residents were spending hours on journeys that should take significantly less time.
“For many communities in Owan, this road is a critical economic lifeline,” the post stated.
The group also raised questions about previous government interventions on the road, including projects reportedly funded through Sukuk.
“The situation also raises serious questions for the Edo State Government under Governor Monday Okpeholo and the Federal Ministry of Works under Minister Engr. David Umahi.
“How did a road that has reportedly benefited from billions of naira in interventions, including Sukuk-funded projects, end up in this condition? What happened to the money allocated for its rehabilitation? What work was actually carried out, and who was responsible for supervising it?”
MONITNG called on the Federal Government to explain how funds committed to the road had been utilised.
It urged Governor Monday Okpebholo and Works Minister David Umahi to urgently intervene, stressing that the route needed more than temporary repairs.
“The road needs more than temporary repairs; it requires a proper, durable reconstruction that will withstand heavy traffic and the region’s rainy-season conditions,” it said.
The group further stressed that residents of Owan deserved safer roads and reliable connections to Benin City and other parts of Edo State.
“Owan is part of Edo State. Its residents deserve safe roads, economic opportunity and a reliable connection to Benin and other parts of the state. This nightmare must end.”
Chronicle NG reports that the concerns come amid renewed calls for sustained investment and proper supervision of road projects across Nigeria, particularly routes serving rural communities and supporting the movement of agricultural produce.
