By Folake Adebudo
For years, the Residents of Ewah road and Iwogban Community lived in the shadows of fear, frustration, and despair. Ravaging floods and deep, dangerous gullies turned once-thriving neighborhoods into near ghost towns. Access roads were destroyed, businesses crippled, and families displaced. Many cried out for help, help that never came.
But today, there’s a different story to tell.
Barely six months in office, Governor Monday Okpebholo is rewriting the narrative with swift, people-focused governance that’s breathing life back into forgotten Communities. Aptly named “The Working Governor” by grateful citizens, his administration is delivering results where it matters most.
In Ewah road, the story of transformation has reignited hope. For years, erosion destroyed homes and businesses, especially at night when water levels surged unexpectedly. Many residents lost goods worth fortunes, and transportation was paralyzed.
“A lot of our goods were damaged during heavy rains,” said a local businessman who asked to remain anonymous. “But now, with this ongoing works, our hope is returning.”
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 site that remained abandoned for over five years has now been reclaimed. What was once an impassable death trap is transforming into a functional roadway, reconnecting families and reviving 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.”
Speaking emotionally in the Esan dialect, Madam Veronica at Anthony Ohezuwa street, called the Governor’s intervention “a divine rescue,” offering heartfelt prayers for his success.
The Edo State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (EdoFEWMA), sprang into action under the Governor’s directive. With daily supervision, technical inspections, and timely execution, the Agency is ensuring these life-saving projects meet quality and speed expectations ahead of the peak rainy season.
In addition to reclaiming gullies, the government is rehabilitating critical routes linking Temboga, Lucky Way, Upper Mission Extension, Aduwawa, and beyond. These roads are not only easing traffic on Ikpoba Hill, but also unlocking economic opportunities for thousands.
Governor Okpebholo’s five-point agenda, especially his focus on infrastructure, is no longer just political rhetoric; it is a reality for Communities that had almost given up.
The people of Ewah road and Iwogban Community are no longer pleading for help. Instead, they are witnessing governance in action, led by a Governor whose sleeves are rolled up and whose ears are open.
A new Edo is rising, and the people are finally being seen, heard, and served.
