The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), , has expressed deep concern over the deplorable condition of the Asaba–Benin Expressway, describing the road as a symbol of Nigeria’s failing infrastructure and misplaced development priorities.
During an inspection tour of the critical highway, Obi lamented the severe deterioration of the road, noting that it has become a nightmare for motorists, commuters, transporters, and businesses that rely on the corridor for economic activities.
He questioned the rationale behind the government’s decision to embark on new road construction projects while many existing federal highways remain in a state of disrepair.
According to Obi, responsible governance requires preserving and maintaining existing infrastructure before committing scarce public resources to new projects. He argued that allowing strategic roads to collapse while announcing fresh construction reflects poor planning and a lack of fiscal discipline.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that the Asaba–Benin Expressway is a vital economic artery linking the South-South and South-East regions to other parts of the country. He warned that its continued neglect has increased travel time, vehicle maintenance costs, accidents, and the movement of goods, thereby undermining commerce and national productivity.
Obi reiterated that infrastructure investment should be driven by national priorities rather than political considerations. He maintained that a government committed to economic growth must focus on rehabilitating critical roads, improving transportation networks, and ensuring that taxpayers receive value for public expenditure.
He called on the relevant authorities to urgently reconstruct and rehabilitate the Asaba–Benin Expressway, insisting that fixing existing infrastructure would deliver immediate economic benefits, improve public safety, and restore confidence in government.
The inspection forms part of Obi’s continued advocacy for prudent management of public resources, accountability, and infrastructure development anchored on efficiency, sustainability, and the welfare of Nigerians.
