Commuters, transport operators, and community leaders in Edo State are sounding the alarm over the poor condition of major federal roads, warning that persistent potholes, failed sections, and traffic bottlenecks are directly contributing to heightened risks of kidnapping and armed robbery.
Stakeholders say that badly deteriorated portions of key highways force vehicles to slow down dramatically, creating prolonged queues and exposing travellers to criminal elements who exploit isolated and vulnerable situations, especially during night hours or low-traffic periods.
A commercial bus driver on the Benin-Auchi route, Monday Igbinovia, noted that although some improvement has been recorded in recent times, several failed sections still compel drivers to reduce speed significantly. “Anytime vehicles are forced to crawl because of potholes, passengers become worried about security,” he said.
Trailer driver Musa Abdullahi, who frequently transports goods across the North-South corridor, described the Benin-Auchi highway as a critical economic route. He explained that the heavy volume of articulated vehicles worsens road damage, leading to extended bottlenecks that heighten security threats for drivers and passengers alike.
Similar concerns have been repeatedly raised along the Benin-Auchi-Okene, Benin-Ore, and Benin-Agbor corridors. Motorist Odiion Sufianu recalled past protests by youths in Auchi over the dangerous combination of bad roads, gully erosion, and criminal activities around the Jattu area. “When roads become difficult to navigate, travellers are forced into vulnerable situations,” he added.
Transport operators Victor Yusuf and Joe Adaba, among others, have called for comprehensive reconstruction of the Benin-Ekpoma-Auchi highway instead of repeated temporary fixes. They argue that a properly rebuilt road would greatly reduce security risks associated with slow-moving traffic and long queues.
Economic and Safety Concerns
Frequent commuter Mrs Grace Okojie lamented how damaged road sections often turn short journeys into exhausting, hours-long trips that stretch into the evening, when risks are higher. Farmers and traders also reported losses of perishable goods due to excessive delays caused by poor road conditions.
Notable Improvements Recorded
On a positive note, significant progress has been observed on the Benin-Sapele-Warri highway. Repairs around Limit Road, Agip, PZ, and Adesuwa Junctions have eased traffic flow and reduced the long queues that previously left commuters stranded for hours.
At Ologbo, the Edo-Delta border community, heavy-duty truck operators expressed relief following the ongoing concrete pavement works. Commercial driver Bashiru Danjuma said the improvements have increased daily trips and reduced the security threats associated with being trapped on the road for long periods.
Community leaders such as Chief Erahor Omoruyi, Vincent Iyoha, and Daniel Omoregbe of the Sapele Road Bypass Axis Group (SARBAG) welcomed the developments and urged timely completion of remaining projects to boost economic activities and enhance safety.
Government Interventions
The Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) has confirmed ongoing rehabilitation works across several federal roads in Edo State. Mr Emeter Olisa, the Federal Road Maintenance Engineer in Edo, stated that direct labour interventions are being carried out on the Oluku Bypass, including drainage desilting, shoulder reconstruction, and asphalt repairs.
He added that a Sukuk-funded project is progressing on the Auchi-Benin corridor, while concrete pavement construction continues on sections of the Benin-Sapele road under the Federal Ministry of Works.
Leaders of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), including Mr Osaro Igbinedion, described the highways as vital national economic lifelines. They emphasised that sustained maintenance and prompt rehabilitation are crucial for reducing accidents, lowering transport costs, and improving overall safety for road users.
As insecurity challenges persist across parts of the country, many in Edo State believe that investing in quality road infrastructure is essential not just for mobility but for the safety and economic wellbeing of commuters and businesses alike.
