Some traders and residents along Sapele Road in Benin have commended President Bola Tinubu and Governor Monday Okpebholo for repairing the long-abandoned road.

This was noted in a statement on Thursday by Patrick Ebojele, the governor’s chief press secretary. The residents described the reconstruction as a huge relief after years of hardship caused by the road’s poor condition.

They said the bad road affected daily life, slowed business, and discouraged customers from visiting the area.

A transporter, Amadi Great, said, “I can’t really appreciate the governor enough. God bless him. This spot was once impossible to reach. The previous governor couldn’t pass here. When the former governor came here, his vehicle got stuck. He said it was a federal road. Thank God, Okpebholo has done it for us.”

A trader, Romary Obazee, said, “We are very happy now. Customers find it easy to come, and transporting goods is no longer a problem.”

Ms Obaze added, “Our sales have improved.”

She urged the government to complete the remaining sections quickly, especially with the rainy season approaching.

“This place used to flood and become impassable. Now the road is good and motorable,” said a battery and car accessories dealer, Richard Erahbor. “Business is better.”

A vulcaniser, Osaro Nosa, said the improved road had brought back customers and increased daily income for traders along the axis.

Residents also praised works minister Dave Umahi and Mr Okpebholo for personally inspecting the project to ensure quality work and proper use of public funds.

(NAN)