Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has said his administration is effectively serving as the voice of the people through strategic infrastructural projects aimed at improving livelihoods and enhancing security across the state.

Speaking during an inspection of ongoing road works, the governor noted that his government is prioritising neglected communities, particularly through extensive road construction and rehabilitation efforts.

“The people that live on this road are voiceless. They don’t have those who can speak for them, but we are their voice. Constructing this road for them is a thing of joy,” Okpebholo said.

He emphasised that governance must directly impact the lives of citizens, adding that his administration is committed to ensuring no community is left behind. The governor also aligned his efforts with the broader national agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that ongoing projects are part of a collective drive to deliver development and hope to Nigerians.

Okpebholo further highlighted the economic potential of the projects, particularly around Ohoghobi and Evbhukhu Boundary, where increased infrastructure is expected to stimulate growth and attract investment.

“By the time we complete the road, economic activities will spring up, and the area will open for development,” he said.

Providing technical details, the site engineer, Engr. Frank Nwogu, disclosed that the project spans approximately 14 kilometres, covering Oghehe, Old Sapele Road, and adjoining areas. He explained that the specific stretch at Ohoghobi and Evbhukhu Boundary is a 2.5-kilometre erosion control project featuring a 1.2-metre by 1-metre drainage system with 250mm reinforced concrete pavement.

According to him, the area had long suffered from severe flooding and poor accessibility, especially during the rainy season, making it largely impassable.

“This is the first time any government is undertaking this kind of project here. It is a high-intensity road, yet the state government has taken on the responsibility,” Nwogu said, adding that drainage work is about 80 per cent completed and the project is scheduled for delivery by May 2026.

Residents of the area expressed appreciation to the state government for addressing years of neglect.

Mr. Peter Onu described the intervention as long overdue, noting that previous administrations had abandoned the road. Similarly, Kate Obayuwana said the community had endured persistent flooding until the current administration intervened.

“We are happy that we have finally been remembered,” she said.

Another resident, Mathew Ehikhuemen, recalled that the community had suffered flooding since 2000, commending the Okpebholo-led administration for bringing relief through the ongoing project.

During the inspection tour, the governor, accompanied by APC State Deputy Chairman Sylvester Aigboboh and other top officials, visited several project sites including the second flyover bridge at Adesuwa Road, as well as roads at Agbonze, Iyore Street, Ohoghobi, Old Sapele Road, Camplink Road, Evbhukhu-Amagba Road, and boundary routes linking Okpagha-Amufi and Iyanomo-Amufi communities.

The statement was issued by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor.