The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Benin-Asaba highway

  • Blackout: Protest grounds traffic on Benin-Asaba highway

    Blackout: Protest grounds traffic on Benin-Asaba highway

    • I spent over 12 hours, says driver

    Residents of Idokpa Community in Uhunmwode Local Government Area grounded vehicular traffic on the Benin-Agbor-Asaba highway as they protested continued blackouts in the area.

    The traffic started from the Benin by-pass to Agbor in Delta State.

    Travellers from various parts of the country were trapped for many hours.

    A driver heading to Ekiti State from Ebonyi State, who gave his name as Idowu, said he spent over 12 hours on the traffic.

    The protesters said they have been without electricity for several weeks.

    One of the protesters who pleaded anonymity said their businesses have been affected due to the power outage.

    Read Also: Blackout looms in Benin over alleged sabotage 

    He said the protest was to draw attention to their sufferings.

    Another protester said they would sustain the protest.

    Management of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) could not be reached for comments but an official who refused to be named blamed low gas supply as the reason for poor power supply.

    He said there was no gas to generate electricity.

    “The power outage being experienced in some parts of Edo is not deliberate, it has to do with the shortage of gas that is used to generate power.”

  • Benin-Asaba highway for delivery on schedule, says firm

    Benin-Asaba highway for delivery on schedule, says firm

    The Benin–Asaba Expressway Concession Company (BAECC) said it would complete construction of the 10-lane Benin-Asaba highway on schedule.

    It said it remained committed to delivering a world-class expressway that would redefine travel, connectivity and commerce along the Benin–Asaba corridor. 

    Chief Executive Officer of BAECC, Edafe Shingle, who spoke at a press briefing in Benin City, presented updates on construction progress and ongoing measures to ease commuter challenges.

    Edafe, who restated the company’s commitment to complete the project in line with international standards and within set timelines, said palliative work on the road has commenced.

    “Our mission remains clear. We want to deliver a road that meets global benchmarks of safety, quality, and durability. We appreciate the patience of road users and host communities as we make steady progress. The collaboration from state authorities, partner agencies, and locals has been invaluable to driving this shared vision.

    Read Also: Angry residents block highways in Ondo community

    “We are not leaving any stone unturned. We are not leaving the people to suffer on this road. We are going to be on the road. By December, this December, at least from where we are in now to the bypass, we are going to see, if not 100% or 90% completion on both sides of the road. We will ensure that the portion is open for the public to use and their sufferings are ameliorated. Thereafter, we move on. We are moving all the way to Summit Junction in Asaga. So, I’m reassuring everybody again, that we are a partner in progress with the people.

    “Anything we are doing here is to ensure that life is easier for Benin people, Edo State in general, and even Nigerians at large. So, I will also use this opportunity to solicit with those who have properties along that stretch. So when changes come, somebody must be affected. It is the rule. I’ve not seen where a major infrastructure like this is taking place and people will not be affected.”

    Community Liaison Officer, Engineer Jude Odogwu, said the firm has strengthened partnerships with community leaders along the corridor as well as local security outfits.