Our reporter
Residents of Ukpenu and other communities along the Ukpenu–Emuhi–Ujianmen–Ehor Road in Edo State have sent a desperate SOS to the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo, popularly known as Akpakomiza, demanding urgent intervention over the deplorable condition of the strategic road.
The road, which links several farming communities in Esan West Local Government Area, has become a nightmare for residents, farmers, traders and motorists, with the suffering on the route said to be worsening by the day.
Residents say the situation is particularly disturbing because the Edo State Government’s 2026 Citizens Budget reportedly earmarked ₦10 billion for the construction of the Ukpenu–Emuhi–Ujianmen–Ehor Road, underlining the project’s strategic importance to the State.
The road is more than a rural access route. It serves communities with significant agricultural potential, including areas known for pineapple production. Farmers depend on it to transport produce from their farms to markets, while traders rely on it to connect rural communities with larger commercial centres.
A functional road, residents argue, would reduce transportation costs, minimise post-harvest losses and unlock greater agricultural trade across the affected communities.
However, community sources alleged that construction work commenced in January 2026 but was later abandoned after the contractor reportedly left the site with equipment, despite claims that funds had been released for the project.
The development has fuelled calls for transparency and accountability over the ₦10 billion project.
There are also allegations that the contract was awarded to Place of Peace Construction Company, reportedly linked to Sylvester Aigboboh, the APC Deputy State Chairman in Edo State. The allegations have raised questions about the procurement process and possible conflicts of interest.
The residents are demanding that the Edo State Government and the Commissioner for Works urgently investigate the status of the project and publicly disclose the identity of the contractor, the contract sum, the amount paid so far and the current level of work completed.
They also want the government to ensure that the contractor immediately returns to site and delivers the road project.
For the affected communities, the message is clear: Edo farmers deserve roads, not abandoned projects.
Residents insist that completing the road would boost agricultural production, lower the cost of moving food, reduce waste and stimulate rural economic activity.
As the cries from Ukpenu and neighbouring communities grow louder, the spotlight is now on the Okpebholo administration to turn budgetary promises into visible infrastructure.
The people are demanding delivery, accountability and value for every naira committed to the project.
Watch Video:
