Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Traders, motorists and residents around Ikpoba Hill and Ramat Park axis in Benin, Edo State, have commended the ongoing construction of the flyover bridge in the state.
In a press statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele and made available to Journalists in Benin, revealed that the residents described the project as a major boost to economic activities, traffic flow and urban renewal.
According to Ebojele, a resident in the area, Mr. Lawrence Agwanhima while speaking to journalists on the impact of the project, said the flyover would significantly improve both the economy and aesthetics of the area.
“It will improve the economy of this environment and also improve the beauty of this place. Before now, movement here was difficult, but this flyover is a good one. Let the governor continue the good work. God will bless him throughout his tenure,” he said.
Addressing concerns about hoodlums occupying spaces under the bridge, Agwanhima dismissed such fears, noting that similar challenges existed even before the project and should not be used to stall development.
Also speaking, Mrs. Ese Juliet said the flyover would bring lasting relief to the persistent traffic congestion experienced along the Ikpoba Hill axis, particularly on market days.
“There is always traffic on this road, especially during market days. As it is now, we thank God that traffic will reduce after the bridge. My advice to the government is that they should try and complete it on time and also expand the road so that traffic will not return,” she said.
Also speaking, Mr. Chijioke Akaru, who has operated a pharmacy shop at Ramat Park for over 30 years, said the project would have a positive economic impact on the state.
“The flyover they are doing will improve the economy of Edo State and reduce go-slow at Ikpoba Hill. I thank the state government for this. I have been here for more than 30 years and I know what traffic has done to businesses here,” he stated.
For Master David Okhaishebor, a student of Army Day Secondary School, he described the flyover as an innovative intervention that would ease movement and improve business activities.
“The flyover is good. We thank the governor for the innovation. At least, hold-up will reduce and cars, Keke and other vehicles will move smoothly. It will be good if the bridge is fenced so that people without homes will not sleep under it and mess up the place,” he added.
The Ikpoba Hill flyover is a flagship infrastructure project of the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration, aimed at easing traffic congestion, enhancing economic activities and improving the overall outlook of Benin City.
Residents remain hopeful that timely completion of the project will further enhance mobility and support sustainable development across Edo State.