The protesters drawn from the various communities in Auchi disrupted commercial activities and vehicular movements over the poor condition of the highway.
Speaking to journalists, a protester, who identified himself as John said the protest was to register their displeasure over the deplorable state of federal roads in the state, most especially the Okene-Auchi-Ekpoma-Benin Expressway.
He said, “We are expressing our anger and frustration at the poor conditions of the roads, which have made transportation difficult and dangerous for drivers and passengers.
“We hope that the Federal Government will come to our aid and fix the road so that life can become better for us.”
Addressing the protesters, Chairman of Etsako West Council, Marvelous Zibiri decried the level of insincerity, lack of political will, and the lack of total commitment by the Federal Government to address the situation, which has led to untold hardship and loss of economic prosperity.
Zibiri urged the protesters to remain calm and law-abiding, adding that they should avoid taking actions that could lead to violence or the destruction of property.
He called on the Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, to take urgent action to repair federal roads in the state, which are in a state of disrepair and pose a serious threat to the safety and well-being of the people.
