Benin-Asaba Road: Umahi Orders Arrest of Contractors Removing Asphalt, Faults Slow Work

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has ordered the arrest of contractors found removing asphalt from existing carriageways along the Benin-Asaba Highway.

Umahi issued the directive on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, during an on-the-spot assessment of the 125-kilometre road following complaints from motorists and host communities over the hardship caused by the ongoing construction.

The development was disclosed in a statement signed by the Ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Mohammed Ahmed, in Abuja on Wednesday.

During the inspection, Umahi criticised the Benin-Asaba Expressway Concession Company Limited, BAECC, for what he described as the slow pace of work on the major highway.

He also accused the concessionaire of disregarding engineering standards despite repeated warnings from the Independent Engineer, Yolas Consultants, and the Ministry of Works.

The minister said the construction methodology adopted by BAECC was negatively affecting motorists, residents of host communities and the overall pace of the project.

“You are not adhering to engineering best practices in road construction and your methodology is adversely impacting road users, host neighbourhoods and the pace of work,” Umahi said.

The BAECC Managing Director, Samuel Daramola, had attributed the challenges along the corridor to heavy traffic and what he described as double rainfall maxima.

However, Umahi rejected the explanation, describing it as “unprofessional and untenable excuses.”

The minister expressed concern over the hardship experienced by Nigerians using the road and apologised to motorists and other road users affected by the condition of the highway.

Umahi subsequently directed Federal Controllers of Works and Engineering Representatives to arrest any contractor found completely removing asphalt from an existing road.

He said contractors must adhere to approved engineering standards and ensure that construction activities do not unnecessarily worsen the condition of existing carriageways.

The Benin-Asaba Highway is a major transport corridor linking Edo and Delta states and serves significant commercial and passenger traffic.

The minister’s directive comes amid growing concerns from motorists and communities over delays, traffic disruption and difficult driving conditions caused by the ongoing rehabilitation and construction work.

Umahi’s inspection is expected to lead to closer monitoring of the project and stricter enforcement of construction standards along the corridor.