Senate declares Onyagede–Ogobia road security concern, calls for swift rehabilitation
The Senate has urged the Federal Government to urgently rehabilitate the Onyagede–Ogobia Road in Benue State, describing the route as a critical security infrastructure requiring immediate attention.
The call followed the adoption of a report by the Senate Committee on Works, which identified the road as strategically important due to its links across communities and its impact on economic activities and security operations.
While presenting the committee’s findings, lawmakers noted that the deteriorating condition of the road had worsened security challenges in the area.
The committee cited the June 26, 2026 attack in which the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku Muhammad, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, were killed by suspected gunmen near Okudu village along the Onyagede–Otukpo corridor after attending a security and peacebuilding meeting in Ohimini Local Government Area.
The Senate called for immediate repairs and the inclusion of the reconstruction project in relevant government intervention plans and budgetary provisions.
The lawmakers also stressed the need for proper drainage channels and erosion-control measures to be included in the project design to prevent environmental damage and reduce future repair costs.
In a broader infrastructure push, the Senate appealed to the Federal Government to rehabilitate at least two major feeder roads in each state and the Federal Capital Territory to improve transportation networks, support businesses and promote nationwide development.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio said better road infrastructure would enhance the movement of goods and services, improve agricultural activities and strengthen security by making remote communities more accessible.
He directed that the Senate’s resolution be sent to the Minister of Works and relevant National Assembly committees to encourage improved funding for road maintenance and rehabilitation through agencies such as the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA).
During deliberations, Senator Adams Oshiomhole highlighted the poor condition of key highways linking Benin City with Asaba, Auchi and Okene, describing them as vital economic routes that require urgent government intervention.
Oshiomhole also criticised what he described as uneven distribution of road projects by the Ministry of Works, urging the government to adopt a fairer approach to infrastructure development to boost trade, connectivity and economic growth.
