The use of laterite as a base material for road construction has been prohibited by the federal government. The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, made this declaration while setting up a committee to oversee the Reconstruction of Benin – Warri dual carriageway and the Dualization of East – West Road, Port Harcourt – Onne Port junction road in River State. He said that contractors should use lumps, sharp sand and stone base as the base layer before applying concrete or asphalt pavement.
Umahi explained that laterite has a low load bearing capacity, and is prone to erosion and weathering especially in areas with high rainfall. This can cause the road surface to deteriorate over time, create maintenance problems and reduce the lifespan of the road.
The statement issued by the Director (Information), Press and Public Relations of the Ministry, Lere-Adams Blessing, read as follows:
“The roads between Benin and Warri are very important to us. The road between Eleme and Onne Port, we are aware of the site conditions and the water conditions of these roads, and the boreholes that are like pot holes on these roads.
“No more laterite, contractors must use lumps, sharp sand and stone base instead of laterite.
“The committee must ensure that the contract agreement is implemented with maintenance culture as a key factor. Committee members must monitor the contractors closely to make sure they do things right.
“I want to say that road infrastructure is one of the key factors for the revolution of our commerce, education, security and power in this country and Mr President is committed to our road infrastructure, so we are on a mission and we must take back our country.
“We are not at war with the contractor but contractors should not make the public suffer. Proper daily supervision and documentation of what the contractor is doing is compulsory.
“They must follow the new method of construction and maintenance as well because it is part of the contract terms and any violation will be punished.”
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