By Tracy Ohovwore, Benin City
Residents of Ewah Road and the Iwogban Community have long faced devastating floods and erosion, which have destroyed accessible roads, crippled businesses, and displaced families.
The Edo State Flood, Erosion, and Watershed Management Agency (EdoFEWMA) responded quickly to the governor’s directive.
The state government also provided daily supervision, technical inspections, and timely execution, with the agency making every effort to ensure that these life-saving projects met quality and speed expectations ahead of the peak rainy season.
Keke rider, Mr. Kelvin, recalled how erosion pushed many commercial operators out of the area. “When it rained, we couldn’t work. The water would fill our tricycles. Though the work is yet to be completed, we are already experiencing the dividends. The ones who left will soon return. This project is saving lives and livelihoods.”
Meanwhile, in Iwogban, a gully that had been abandoned for over five years has finally been reclaimed. What was once an impassable death trap is being transformed into a functional road, reuniting families and revitalizing commerce.
“For seven years, I couldn’t get home before 9 p.m. because of the notorious Ikpoba Hill traffic,” said Mr. Daniel, a local motorist. “There was no alternative route. It was worse on market days or even after the rain. Now, it takes me just 15 minutes from Temboga to Aduwawa. That’s nothing short of a miracle.”
In addition to reclaiming gullies, the government is rehabilitating critical routes connecting Temboga, Lucky Way, Upper Mission Extension, Aduwawa, and beyond, which will not only reduce traffic but also create economic opportunities for thousands.
