The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to residents and contractors operating within the state, cautioning them against damaging water infrastructure. The government emphasized that individuals found guilty of such acts will face arrest and prosecution.
In a statement released by Hon. Damilola Otubanjo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Water Resources, the state condemned the deliberate destruction of water facilities by some residents and accused road contractors of damaging pipelines during construction without making efforts to repair or replace them.
The Ogun State Water Corporation (OSWC) highlighted the challenges it faces due to ageing and deteriorating infrastructure, which has not been replaced by previous administrations. Despite ongoing efforts to rehabilitate and upgrade water supply networks, the corporation lamented that its progress is being undermined by frequent damage to its facilities.
Hon. Otubanjo stated, “As we are fully committed to rehabilitating and upgrading our water supply networks, our efforts are being severely hampered by the insensitive activities of road contractors. These contractors, driven solely by the urgency of road construction, frequently damage our underground pipeline networks with little regard for the consequences of their actions.”
The corporation outlined the negative impacts of such damages, including:
1. **Increased Non-Revenue Water (NRW):** Damaged pipelines lead to significant water loss, escalating operational costs, and reduced service efficiency.
2. **Wastage of Treated Water:** Burst pipes result in the loss of treated water, depleting limited resources.
3. **Escalating Repair Costs:** Frequent repairs divert funds that could otherwise be used for infrastructure upgrades.
4. **Health Risks:** Broken pipes expose treated water to contaminants, posing serious health hazards.
5. **Service Disruptions:** Burst pipes cause interruptions in water supply, depriving communities of clean water.
6. **Financial Losses:** Damaged infrastructure leads to uncollected revenue and wasted resources.
7. **Reputational Damage:** Service disruptions create a false perception of negligence, eroding public trust in the OSWC.
The OSWC reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against any act that damages its infrastructure, warning that offenders will be held accountable. The corporation announced plans to enforce stricter collaboration with road construction firms to ensure pre-construction assessments of water pipelines. Additionally, it will strengthen monitoring and rapid response mechanisms to address damages swiftly and enhance public awareness campaigns.
The statement concluded with a call to action: “We urge road contractors and all stakeholders to act responsibly and prioritize infrastructure protection. Any deliberate or negligent act that compromises our water distribution network will be met with decisive action. We call on all relevant authorities, agencies, and the general public to join us in preserving and protecting our water assets for the benefit of all.”
The OSWC remains committed to improving water supply across Ogun State but stressed that these efforts require the cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of water infrastructure.
