While assuring that there is no cause for concern, Umahi
disclosed that the construction of the 86.43 kilometres highway is in
accordance with approved engineering designs and specifications, adding that
the structural integrity of the pavement is not compromised.

A video had a few days ago gone viral with a content creator
raising the alarm that wire mesh were being used in the construction instead of
heavy iron rod.

With the Minister expressing satisfaction with the level of
job done by the contractor handling the project, he disclosed that when
completed, the road will last for over 50 years, stressing that the federal
government is committed to delivering durable, safe, and cost-effective road
infrastructure across Nigeria.

According to Umahi, who was represented by the Controller of
Works in Ondo State, Olajide Hussein, while monitoring the Ajue corridor of the
project in Odigbo Local Council Area of the state, in Nigeria and
internationally, it is a standard practice.

“We also saw the viral video and the complainant
specifically mentioned the use of wire mesh on the outer shoulders and
suggested that the contractor use the same heavy reinforcement here on the
carriage where we are standing with the outer shoulders.

“Now, the use of A142 wire mesh which you have seen on the
outer shoulder is a standard practice all over the world. In Nigeria and
internationally, it is a standard practice.

“We use the heavy reinforcement which you can see on the
carriageway because of the flexural stresses, and we use light wire meshes on
the outer shoulders because it doesn’t carry as much load.

“So if you go to all our single carriageway rigid road
constructions nationwide, you will find a similar design. It is not peculiar to
Ore-Ondo-Akure Road. It is not peculiar to Ondo State,” Umahi stated.