Following the crash at the Ovia River Bridge, the Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu and myself led officials of the Ministry of Roads and Bridges and other agencies for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation.
In line with the vision of Edo State Governor, His Excellency, Mr Godwin Obaseki, for a safer Edo which also includes safety in transit, the following measures have immediately been undertaken to prevent a recurrence of the road mishap and loss of precious lives:
1. Immediate deployment of Levant Construction Limited to the site of Ovia River bridge to commence palliative works in order to prevent future crashes on the bad spot.
2. Defraying the hospital bills of victims who survived the crash.
3. Affixing caution signs with reflective cordon tape and barricades.
4. Creation of detour/ diversion route outward of Benin — Ore route at kilometer 19. This diversion is to ensure the safety of motorists and the smooth flow of traffic in the area during the repairs.
5. Continued mobilization of local search and rescue team for recovery of the bodies.
6. Recovery from the river and evacuation of broken down vehicles from the spots.
Edo State Ministry of Roads and Bridges, together with the construction firm, Levant Construction Limited, will ensure that the Ovia River Bridge is in optimal condition to ensure a safer travel experience for all.
Once again, we hereby appeal to the Federal Government to halt the continued neglect of the road and collaborate with Edo State Government through FERMA and other appropriate agencies for the reconstruction of the aforementioned area.
Meanwhile, we encourage all motorists to adhere to the warning signs and follow the detour provided. I will institute regular inspection of the works and provide further updates on the progress of the repairs.
Signed:
Hon. Ethan Uzamere
Commissioner, Ministry of Roads and Bridges
