By Sunday Apah
Delta State’s Acting Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, expressed optimism on Thursday as remedial work commenced on the degraded section of the Benin-Onitsha Expressway, particularly affecting motorists on the Asaba-Onitsha route.
During an on-site inspection of the damaged road and surrounding areas in Asaba, which have been experiencing heavy traffic due to the road’s condition, Onyeme reported receiving assurances from the contractor that the first lane of the dual carriageway will be repaired to facilitate smoother traffic flow before the rainy season concludes.
The Acting Governor noted that the deterioration of internal roads in Asaba has been exacerbated by diverted traffic from the federal road, leading to plans for repairs on these routes as well.
“We have thoroughly assessed Nnebisi Road and Dennis Osadebay Way, as well as various failing sections along the Ibusa/Asaba road towards the Koka Interchange,” he stated.
“Measures are currently being taken to address some critical areas where a truck recently fell onto two smaller vehicles. We are documenting other affected spots, and our technical team will act swiftly to ensure repairs.”
Recognizing the historical significance of these roads, Onyeme remarked, “While contractors have previously done commendable work, our internal road network was not designed for the volume of heavy vehicles now using them due to issues with the federal road. We aim to rectify all damaged sections in Asaba effectively.”
He also expressed gratitude to federal authorities for mobilizing workers to address the major failures in the expressway, emphasizing, “This initiative will alleviate pressure on our local roads. I am confident that in the coming days, the issues related to these damaged areas will be resolved.”
In response to calls for restricting heavy vehicles on internal roads, the Acting Governor stressed the challenges of enforcing such measures.
“We will continue to advocate for improvements as a state, but there are limits to our capabilities. Many truck drivers are residents of Delta State, and if the expressway is compromised, they will inevitably seek alternative routes, which could have broader economic implications.”
Accompanying Onyeme on the inspection tour were several key officials, including the Commissioner for Works (Urban Roads), Hon. Reuben Izeze, Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, and Chief Patrick Ukah of the Asaba Capital Territory Development Agency.
