In line with his campaign promises on provision of portable water to the people of Udenu LGA, Aka Eze Aka has made a decisive move to address the long-standing water scarcity in Udenu Local Government Area. The Executive Chairman, represented by his Deputy, Hon. Mrs. Onyinye Odoh, led a high-powered team of engineers and government officials to the site of the moribund Obollo Afor Regional Water Scheme. The visit marks the beginning of a crucial effort to rehabilitate the moribund facility, which has remained inoperative for nearly three decades.
The Obollo Afor Regional Water Scheme, which has the capacity to supply potable water to residents of Udunedem, Obollo Etiti, and parts of Ezimo, was last renovated and commissioned on February 18, 1996, during the military administration of Col. Mike Torey, then Military Governor of Enugu State. Since then, successive governments have failed to restore the facility, leaving residents to grapple with severe water shortages.
Accompanying the Deputy Mayor on the inspection tour were the Leader of the Udenu Legislative Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr. Nnamdi Odoh; the Town Engineer, Engr. Robert Omeh; the Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Dr. Jude Ukwueze; and Dr. Chidiebere Nnamani, a key member of the Udenu Economic Team.
During the visit, the engineering team conducted a comprehensive assessment of the facility, identifying the major areas that require urgent rehabilitation. Following their technical evaluation, they submitted a detailed report to the Chairman of the Local Government, outlining their recommendations for revamping the water scheme.
Upon receiving the report in his office, Aka Eze Aka expressed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that the water scheme is restored to full functionality. He acknowledged the plight of Udenu residents who have suffered water scarcity for over three decades and assured them that his government is determined to end their suffering.
“I understand the significance of this water scheme to the people of Udenu, and I assure you that my administration is committed to finding a lasting solution. I will carefully study the recommendations and revert to the contractors as soon as possible,” the Chairman stated.
The visit has rekindled hope among the residents of Udenu, who have persistently called for government intervention in restoring the borehole system. Community members have expressed optimism that this initiative will bring relief to thousands who currently rely on alternative and often expensive sources of water.
A resident of Obollo Etiti, Mr. John Ugwoke, lauded the administration’s proactive steps, saying, “For years, we have suffered due to lack of potable water. We sincerely hope that this government will finally bring the solution we have been yearning for.”
Similarly, Mrs. Chinwe Ugwu, a trader at Obollo Afor Market, emphasized the economic benefits of restoring the water scheme. “Access to clean water will not only improve our health but also boost businesses that depend on water supply,” she said.
With the Chairman’s commitment to reviewing and implementing the engineers’ recommendations, residents are hopeful that the Obollo Afor Regional Water Scheme will soon be brought back to life. If successfully rehabilitated, the project will significantly improve the quality of life in Udenu, ensuring that clean and affordable water is accessible to the people.
As the administration of Aka Eze Aka continues its developmental agenda, stakeholders are watching closely, eager to see if this long-awaited intervention will finally bring an end to decades of water scarcity in Udenu Local Government Area.
© Media Office of Udenu LG Chairman.
