The water crisis in Otukpo, Benue State, has reached a critical level, forcing residents to depend on muddy pools, shallow wells, and contaminated streams for drinking water.
As the dry season intensifies, traditional water sources have dried up, leaving thousands without access to clean water and increasing cases of cholera, typhoid, and river blindness.
Decades-Long Crisis: The Collapse of Otobi Water Works
Otukpo, once a thriving town with a functional water supply, has battled water scarcity for decades. At the center of the crisis is the long-abandoned Otobi Water Works, a facility designed to provide potable water but has remained non-functional due to government neglect and lack of maintenance.
The rocky soil texture in Otukpo has made it difficult to drill boreholes, unlike other regions where underground water is easily accessible. This has left residents with no alternative but to fetch water from unsafe sources.
Survival Struggles: Women and Children Worst Hit
With no access to clean water, women and children embark on long treks every morning to neighboring Ohimini LGA, competing with animals for access to stagnant water pools.
“Many of our water sources are contaminated with human and animal waste,” said Agbo John, a resident of Obaganya.
“People in Edikwu, Entina, Igbanonmaje, and EiUpi are forced to fetch water from the same streams used for laundry and waste disposal.”
The worst-hit area is Asa Community, where residents now rely on the muddy remains of the Ukplo River.
Government and Private Efforts to Address the Crisis
In response to the worsening situation, the Benue State government has announced plans to rehabilitate the Otobi Water Works.
Hon. Ugwu Ameh Odoh, Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment, and Climate Change, stated:
“The council has directed the Ministry of Water Resources to work with CGC to rehabilitate the facility and restore water supply in Otobi, Otukpo, and surrounding areas.”
Additionally, the Benue State Executive Council has approved over N149.5 billion for infrastructural development, including water projects.
Private Initiatives Offer Temporary Relief
While the government’s intervention is awaited, private individuals and philanthropists have stepped in to provide temporary relief.
Honourable Angbo Kennedy, a lawmaker representing Otukpo Akpa, has donated funds for the drilling of the Ukplo River to create an alternative water source.
Meanwhile, Mohammed Odeh Adah, popularly known as Ochacho, has been supplying free water to residents through private initiatives.
“Every time Ochacho’s water trucks come, there’s a rush, and sometimes not everyone gets enough,” said Emmanuel Obotu, an Otukpo resident.
“We appreciate his effort, but one person’s kindness cannot solve an age-long crisis.”
The Way Forward: Hope for a Lasting Solution
The water crisis in Otukpo continues to threaten the health and well-being of thousands. While government promises and private initiatives offer some relief, a long-term sustainable solution is urgently needed to restore clean water access to the people.
