The Iruekpen–Ozalla–Sabo Road in Edo State’s Owan axis has reportedly deteriorated badly, leaving motorists stranded and heavy-duty trucks stuck in deep mud. MONITNG raised the concerns in a post on X, calling for urgent intervention from the Edo State Government and Federal Ministry of Works.

ATTENTION!!!

“Dear Governor @m_akpakomiza

This is the Iruekpen–Ozalla–Sabo Road in the Owan axis of Edo State, now a nightmare.

The picture taken today tells a painful story. Heavy-duty trucks are stuck in deep mud, vehicles struggle to pass, and travellers are left stranded for hours. What should be a vital road connecting communities has deteriorated to the point where movement is becoming a daily battle.

The consequences go beyond inconvenience. Farmers struggle to move their produce, traders face huge transportation challenges, businesses lose money, vehicles are damaged, and residents are forced to spend hours on journeys that should take far less time. For many communities in Owan, this road is a critical economic lifeline.

The situation also raises serious questions for the Edo State Government under Governor Monday Okpeholo and the Federal Ministry of Works under Minister Engr. David Umahi.

How did a road that has reportedly benefited from billions of naira in interventions, including Sukuk-funded projects, end up in this condition? What happened to the money allocated for its rehabilitation? What work was actually carried out, and who was responsible for supervising it?

The Federal Government needs to explain what is happening to the funds committed to this road. Owan people cannot continue to suffer while public funds are repeatedly allocated to road projects that fail to deliver lasting results.

Governor Monday Okpeholo and Minister David Umahi must urgently act. The road needs more than temporary repairs; it requires a proper, durable reconstruction that will withstand heavy traffic and the region’s rainy-season conditions.

Owan is part of Edo State. Its residents deserve safe roads, economic opportunity and a reliable connection to Benin and other parts of the state. This nightmare must end”.