Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
A video showing the alarming condition of a major road in the Agbede community of Etsako West Local Government Area, Edo State, went viral on social media on Sunday, July 19, 2026, with the man who filmed it lamenting the state of the road and the danger it poses to motorists and residents. The video, which quickly gained thousands of views across multiple platforms, captured large sections of the road completely washed away, leaving deep gullies and exposing motorists to dangerous driving conditions. In the footage, the unidentified man pointed out the collapsed portions of the road, expressing frustration that despite years of complaints, the federal and state governments had failed to take action.
The road, which connects Agbede to neighbouring communities and serves as a vital link for travelers plying the Benin-Auchi route, has deteriorated significantly over the years, leading to multiple accidents and frequent gridlocks. Residents told our correspondent that the road's condition had worsened in recent months, with the latest collapse occurring after a heavy downpour that washed away a section of the road. "This road is a death trap. We have been crying for help for years, but nobody is listening," one resident said.
The viral video has reignited calls for urgent government intervention, with many Nigerians on social media condemning the neglect of critical infrastructure in the state. The Agbede axis of the Benin-Auchi road has long been a source of concern, with frequent accidents and tanker explosions claiming dozens of lives over the years. In March 2025, eight passengers were burnt to death in a fatal accident at Agbede when a truck lost its brakes and rammed into other vehicles. The community has also witnessed repeated tanker accidents, raising questions about the safety of the road and the need for urgent repairs.
The Edo State Government, under Governor Monday Okpebholo, has promised to address the state's infrastructure challenges, with the administration undertaking several road projects across the state. In April 2025, Governor Okpebholo inspected the Uromi-Agbede link road, which is nearing 90 per cent completion, and assured residents of more development. However, the Ewu-Agbede old road, which serves as a crucial link between Edo Central and Edo North, remains in a deplorable state, with residents appealing to the governor to rehabilitate it. The Niger Delta Development Commission has also intervened in the reconstruction of the Irrua-Ewu-Agbede road, but the collapse captured in the viral video suggests that much more work is needed.
As of the time of filing this report, the Edo State Government and the Federal Road Safety Corps had not issued an official statement on the viral video or the condition of the Agbede road. However, the video has already sparked fresh calls for accountability, with many Nigerians demanding that the government take urgent steps to fix the road and prevent further loss of lives. The viral footage has brought the plight of Agbede residents into the national spotlight, and the coming days may determine whether the government will act to address the long-neglected infrastructure.
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