Minister of Works David Umahi has moved against the concessionaire handling the troubled Benin-Asaba Expressway following mounting complaints over the road’s worsening condition and severe traffic congestion.
Umahi directed the concessionaire to write to the Federal Government through the Ministry of Works to facilitate termination of the concession arrangement, while also ordering the immediate removal of blockages obstructing traffic along the highway.
The minister had earlier criticised the Benin-Asaba Expressway Concession Company (BAECC) over its handling of the project, accusing the company of lacking the technical competence required for such a major road project.
He was particularly concerned that existing asphalt had been removed without adequate drainage work being completed first, a situation he said contributed to the deterioration of the highway.
The road was concessioned in 2025 for reconstruction and expansion into a 10-lane highway. The deteriorating condition of sections of the route has, however, resulted in prolonged traffic disruptions and hardship for motorists.
The Federal Government has also ordered a review of road concession arrangements nationwide following the crisis on the Benin-Asaba corridor.
Umahi has apologised to commuters affected by the situation and said emergency measures would be taken to restore the road and ease the hardship faced by road users.