SPI-LAW sues FG and BAECC over hazardous Benin-Asaba Expressway
SPI-LAW filed a lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja on September 11 against the Federal Government and Benin-Asaba Expressway Concession Company Limited (BAECC), seeking to terminate the concession agreement and order urgent repairs on the 125-kilometre highway. The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2171/2026, also names the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Works as defendants.
The organisation argues that deteriorated, excavated and unsafe sections of the Benin-Asaba Expressway pose serious risks to motorists, traders, farmers, businesses and emergency services relying on this vital transport route. SPI-LAW contends that road safety should not be left as a contractual dispute between government and concessionaire when lives are at stake, citing constitutional provisions requiring government to prioritize public welfare and security.
The lawsuit follows a dispute where the Federal Ministry of Works stated it needed BAECC's permission to intervene on the highway under the concession agreement. After Minister David Umahi's request to conduct emergency repairs was denied, the government has since directed contractors to begin emergency work on three sections at its own cost, while planning full reconstruction with reinforced concrete pavement. SPI-LAW also seeks court orders for traffic management and safety measures pending wider rehabilitation. Will this legal action accelerate urgently needed safety improvements on the highway you use for travel or business?