Minister of Works David Umahi, a professional with a background in engineering and a track record in Ebonyi State, has faced significant criticism regarding his management of federal road projects. The public frustration stems from the poor condition of major routes, such as the Benin-Warri and Ore-Benin highways, which have deteriorated under his watch. Instead of acknowledging these failures, critics argue that the Minister often deflects responsibility, failing to address the infrastructure crisis that commuters face daily.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole recently broke ranks with traditional political norms by publicly questioning the Minister’s priorities during a Senate session. Oshiomhole highlighted a bias in project allocation, noting that while new road projects are being approved, critical corridors connecting Edo and Delta states remain neglected in the national budget. Oshiomhole urged the Minister to adopt a more balanced approach that considers national needs over localized project preferences.
The root of the issue may also lie in funding, as the Ministry of Works reportedly received only nine percent of its capital budget, leaving contractors with significant outstanding payments. Despite these financial constraints, observers suggest that Umahi should be more transparent about his limitations and prioritize essential repairs over expansive, costly projects. The disparity in progress between the efficiently managed Shagamu-Ijebu Ode road and the neglected Benin-Warri stretch serves as a point of contention. Ultimately, stakeholders hope that the Minister will prioritize tangible results over political rhetoric to alleviate the suffering of the Nigerian public.
