Benin City residents demand urgent repairs for deplorable roads

Residents of Benin City, the capital of Edo State, are calling for urgent government intervention due to the deteriorating condition of intra-city roads. Many roads, particularly within the Government Reservation Area (GRA), have fallen into disrepair after decades without rehabilitation or proper drainage systems.

The Ring Road area has become increasingly difficult to navigate, with deep potholes and craters on major entry points such as Mission Road, Oba Market Road, Plymouth Road, and Ibiwe Road. These conditions cause significant disruptions for commuters and business owners during peak morning and evening hours. Additionally, the lack of drainage has led to flooding and erosion, making roads like Ihama Road and Boundary Road impassable during rainfall.

Local residents have also noted the decline of public spaces, including overgrown gardens around Kings Square and the unkempt grounds of the National Museum. The lack of maintenance has also led to unauthorized commercial activity, with drivers using parts of the city center as makeshift motor parks.