The Edo State Government has approved the total rehabilitation of over forty-five failed portions on the Auchi-Igarra-Ibillo road, as part of efforts to revive economic activities in towns and villages within the Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, said the latest approval comes as the state government completes the construction of the Ikiran-Oke–Ikakhumoh road, also within the local government area.
The Auchi-Igarra-Ibillo road connects many communities in Akoko Edo and serves as a link between Kogi and Ondo States. It also functions as an alternative route for vehicles traveling from Abuja to Lagos.
Residents of the area, known for quarry operations and cassava processing, decried the difficulty they face in transporting goods to market due to the deteriorated road conditions.
A commercial driver operating in the area explained that the poor state of the road has discouraged many drivers from plying the route, thereby increasing the cost of transporting goods from Akoko Edo.
The contractor handling the project, Mr. Bajwa Hammed, after a preliminary inspection, assured the people of Akoko Edo that all failed sections would be fully rehabilitated to meet the highest standards.
“There are a lot of failed portions on this road that need to be fixed urgently for the safe passage of people and vehicles. I understand the standard the governor expects, and we will deliver on it,” he said.
