Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has called on the Federal Government to prioritize the restoration and upkeep of existing highways rather than launching new construction initiatives. He shared this perspective on his official X account this past Monday, arguing that citizens need reliable and safe roads instead of flashy projects designed for optics.
Highlighting the Asaba–Benin Road as a prime example, Obi noted that it serves as a critical connection for commuters traveling from regions such as Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Rivers, and several other states toward Lagos. He explained that large portions of this essential route have fallen into severe disrepair, creating constant traffic gridlocks and significant burdens for businesses and motorists.
The former Anambra State governor asserted that the government should pause new projects, especially those offering limited utility, to focus on the essential task of maintaining current infrastructure. He emphasized that the state of the Asaba–Benin Road is symptomatic of broader national highway decay. According to Obi, genuine national progress requires addressing the dangerous state of existing roads rather than pursuing superficial projects for political convenience.
