The Ogun State Government has issued a firm warning against the destruction of water infrastructure, particularly by contractors engaged in road construction projects. According to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Water Resources, Damilola Otubanjo, the frequent damage to underground pipelines is severely hampering efforts to provide clean and reliable water to residents.
The Ogun State Water Corporation (OSWC) has been battling ageing and deteriorating facilities, a challenge worsened by successive administrations failing to implement necessary upgrades. However, ongoing rehabilitation efforts are being undermined by constant pipeline destruction. Each damaged pipe not only disrupts water supply but also results in the loss of already-treated water, leading to unnecessary depletion of resources and higher operational costs.
Beyond financial losses, the repercussions of these avoidable damages extend to public health risks. When pipelines are broken, treated water can become contaminated, exposing communities to waterborne diseases. Additionally, residents face frequent disruptions in supply, forcing them to seek alternative, often unsafe, water sources. The OSWC has warned that continuous damage to its infrastructure could erode public trust in its ability to deliver essential services.
In response, the government is implementing stricter monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to hold erring contractors accountable. Collaboration between the Water Corporation and construction firms will be strengthened to ensure pre-construction assessments of pipeline locations, preventing unnecessary damage. Additionally, rapid response teams will be deployed to quickly address leaks and burst pipes, minimising service interruptions.
Public awareness campaigns are also being launched to educate residents and contractors about the critical role of water infrastructure in community development. The Ogun State Government has made it clear that it will no longer tolerate reckless actions that compromise the state’s water supply.
