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Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has reiterated his stance that the government should prioritise the rehabilitation of existing roads over new construction projects, citing the deteriorating condition of the Asaba–Benin Expressway as a case in point.
In a statement on Monday, Obi said the highway, a major artery linking several states in the South-South, South-East, and South-West, had become a “major impediment” to travellers and businesses.
“Instead of undertaking new ventures and dualisation projects that offer marginal benefits, our primary focus ought to be on repairing the critical roads already in place,” Obi said.
He noted that travellers from Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Rivers, Imo, Ebonyi, Cross River, Abia, Enugu, and parts of Benue and Kogi states are compelled to use the route to reach Lagos.
“Despite its significance, substantial sections of this road are in a lamentable condition,” he said.
“It has become a major impediment, precipitating persistent traffic congestion and inflicting undue hardship on travellers, businesses, and transport operators.
“Regrettably, this situation is not unique; it reflects the reality on many of our busiest national highways.”
The former Anambra State governor, who has previously questioned the government’s decision to pursue mega infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, said the Nigerian populace requires functional and motorable roads, not merely projects that garner public attention.
“Our efforts should be directed towards the reconstruction and maintenance of our current road infrastructure before we announce plans for new road projects. The Nigerian populace requires functional and motorable roads, not merely projects that garner public attention.
“Efforts aimed at superficial improvements for political gain should not supersede the urgent need to address the condition of our existing, critical roadways.”
The Asaba–Benin Expressway, a 125-kilometre federal road corridor, has been in disrepair for years, with motorists and residents lamenting its condition. The government flagged off its reconstruction in March 2025, but progress has been slow.
My Stance on Road Development
There is a pertinent reason I have consistently advocated that we should refrain from initiating new road construction projects until we have thoroughly rehabilitated and maintained our existing road network. Instead of undertaking new ventures and… pic.twitter.com/s3d1FVXmtW
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) June 29, 2026
