The Kogi State Government has announced the arrest of several suspects involved in the vandalism of armored cables at the Greater Lokoja water works in Ganaja Village.
State Commissioner for Water Resources Yahaya Farouk revealed this during a session with journalists on Monday evening.
Farouk explained that the suspects are currently being interrogated and are providing useful information to the Kogi State Police Command.
He stated, “I believe this issue is internal. We reported it to the State Police command, resulting in the arrests of suspects involved in vandalizing armored cables intended for the Greater Lokoja water works. Private security agencies investigated and found that some individuals admitted selling the cables in Ganaja.
“Our supply tank A, which is supposed to serve tank B, was also vandalized. We will apprehend all involved, regardless of where they hide. Anyone who vandalizes public infrastructure meant to serve the people will face consequences.
“I urge communities to take ownership of our installations across the State. I commend Ayegunle Gbede in Kogi East for protecting our infrastructure. When water equipment was auctioned five years ago, the community insisted on seeing the Ministry of Water Resources before any action was taken. This level of community involvement should be replicated throughout the State to prevent vandalism of our critical infrastructure.”
Farouk informed journalists that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has approved funding for the rehabilitation of the old Lokoja water works.
He noted that the plant is intended to supply water to some areas of Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, pending the completion of repairs at the Greater Lokoja Water Works, which were damaged by floods in 2022.
The State government is taking steps to replace submerged equipment at the Greater Lokoja Water Works, though this will take at least 12 months to complete.
He emphasized the administration’s commitment to addressing water scarcity and appealed to residents for patience, assuring them that efforts are underway to resolve the issue.
“By Friday, contractors will begin rehabilitating the old Lokoja water works. This has been approved and funded by the Governor. Soon, water supply will return to the Lokoja metropolis,” he stated.
Farouk dismissed rumors that the reservoir for the old Lokoja water works has been sold.
“This is false and should be disregarded. These are the actions of mischief-makers spreading fake news to undermine the government’s efforts to restore water to Lokoja,” he said.