Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta has ordered the immediate rehabilitation of the failed Mosogar–Oghara section of the Benin–Warri Expressway in a bid to restore smooth traffic flow and reduce the hardship faced by thousands of motorists travelling on the strategic federal highway.
The directive followed growing public concern over the worsening condition of the Mosogar–Oghara stretch in Ethiope West LGA, which has become one of the most damaged sections of the Benin–Warri Expressway.
Deep potholes and failed portions of the road have caused persistent gridlock, increased travel time and exposed commuters to security risks.
Although the highway is under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, Governor Oborevwori approved immediate palliative intervention to provide temporary relief while awaiting comprehensive reconstruction by the federal authorities.
Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Reuben Izeze, said the governor took the decision after receiving reports on the suffering of road users and the economic losses caused by the deteriorating condition of the highway.
According to him, the administration considers the safety and welfare of residents and travellers a priority and could not ignore the hardship being experienced daily on the road.
Izeze disclosed that Obakpor Engineering Construction Company has already been mobilised to the site with heavy-duty equipment, construction materials and personnel to begin emergency repairs without delay.
The intervention would involve filling failed sections, strengthening weak portions of the road and improving its motorability pending permanent reconstruction.
He explained that the repairs are expected to ease the severe traffic congestion that has become common along the corridor, particularly during peak travel periods when motorists spend several hours navigating the damaged sections.
The commissioner noted that the Benin–Warri Expressway remained one of Nigeria’s busiest transport corridors, linking Delta, Edo and other South-South states while serving as a major route for commercial activities, petroleum distribution and interstate transportation.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to responding promptly to infrastructure challenges affecting the wellbeing of residents.
Izeze stressed that the intervention demonstrates Governor Oborevwori’s resolve to improve transportation and ease the burden on citizens despite the road being a federal asset.
Its poor condition, he said, has negatively affected businesses, increased vehicle maintenance costs and slowed the movement of goods and services.
Motorists and residents welcomed the governor’s intervention, describing it as timely.
Many expressed hope that the emergency repairs would reduce accidents, improve safety and restore confidence among road users while the Federal Government undertakes a permanent reconstruction of the highway.
