Highway
The Benin–Ekpoma Road: A Firsthand Account of Road Woes
Occasionally, we experience the unexpected on Nigerian roads. Everyone plans to leave and arrive at their destination on time, but often fail due to traffic and poor road conditions.
This is especially common on major highways. A linked road or shortcut might provide some relief, but can also end in disappointment.
One striking observation is the sheer number of heavy-duty vehicles—many owned by different companies, including 50 to 100 trucks from the Dangote Group—that flood these roads. Although their movement may seem coordinated, it is likely coincidental. These vehicles transport oil, fuel, metal scraps, livestock, and other commodities.
Several roads across Nigeria are notorious for these issues, including the Oshodi–Apapa Expressway, the Apapa–Wharf Road, Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, and the Benin–Auchi Expressway. However, this post focuses specifically on a personal experience traveling along the Benin–Ekpoma stretch of the Benin–Auchi Expressway—a federal route connecting southern Nigeria to the north.
Distances and Typical Travel Time
The distance between Benin and Auchi in Edo State is approximately 126 to 132 kilometers and usually takes about two hours to cover by car. The stretch from Benin to Ekpoma is around 74 to 84 kilometers and typically takes between one and one-and-a-half hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Road Condition and Vehicle Blockades
The road between Benin and Ekpoma has remained in a deplorable state, a condition that has persisted through successive federal administrations. Although former President (Rtd.) General Muhammadu Buhari promised to rehabilitate and dualize the road, that promise was not realized during his administration.
Linked roads or shortcuts—presumably under the purview of the state government—are often neither wide enough nor properly tarred, making them unsuitable for safe or efficient navigation. As a result, these supposed alternatives rarely offer meaningful relief from the persistent gridlock.
In many instances, serious gridlocks or outright blockades are caused by parked or broken-down trailers occupying large sections of the road. This makes it incredibly difficult for smaller vehicles and commuters to pass through without delays or detours.
A short clip below describes the situation:
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