Residents along the Benin–Sapele Road in Edo State have voiced their frustration over the slow pace of ongoing repair works on the highway, which has been in a state of disrepair for years.

The deteriorating stretch, spanning from the by-pass axis to the Ologbo-Koko Junction, first showed signs of damage in 2018 due to poor drainage design and lack of maintenance. The situation worsened as political disagreements between the state and federal governments stalled progress, with the state handling palliative works and the Federal Government responsible for full rehabilitation of the strategic route linking the western and South-South corridors.

Hopes were raised when the current Edo State administration took over part of the rehabilitation work initially awarded to Levant Construction Company. However, years later, residents say there has been little visible progress on site.

“I have lived here since 2022 and commuting has been a nightmare,” said Igbinovia Lucky, a resident of Ogheghe by the by-pass. “A journey that should take 30 to 45 minutes now lasts up to five or six hours, especially in the evenings when people are returning from work.”

Transporters have also lamented the situation. Sunday Ochuko, who frequently uses the road, said its poor state has increased accident risks, led to frequent thefts, and caused trucks to tip over or become stuck, sometimes forcing drivers to offload livestock and goods by the roadside.

He added that motorists are spending significantly more on fuel and vehicle maintenance due to slow traffic and detours, while transport operators are now able to make fewer trips per day. As a result, passenger fares on the Benin–Sapele route have nearly doubled.

The ripple effects are being felt across the local economy. Businesses report reduced working hours and delays in supply chains, while farmers and traders struggle with rising costs. A fruit seller who moves produce between Benin and Sapele said frequent delays, spoilage, and theft are causing heavy losses.

“Prices are going up because we have to cover the cost of transportation,” the trader explained, warning that the rising costs are further squeezing consumers.