Traditional rulers in Otukpo, Benue State, have urged residents to protect water installations to prevent vandalism or any actions that could disrupt water supply.
The mayor of Otukpo, Chief Aloga Ogbogo, speaking on behalf of the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty John Elaigwu Odogbo, and other monarchs in Idoma land, made the appeal in a statement thanking Governor Hyacinth Alia for his efforts to restore water supply to Otukpo and surrounding areas.
The statement, signed by the mayor and shared with journalists in Makurdi on Tuesday, also expressed gratitude to the state government for approving the payment of the outstanding contract sum to the Chinese company responsible for constructing the Otobi/Otukpo and Katsina-Ala Water Works.
The mayor called on the Ministry of Water Resources to ensure that the rehabilitation of the waterworks is done according to specifications. He also highlighted that the efforts to restore the waterworks reflect the governor’s commitment to improving the welfare of Otukpo and Idoma land residents.
The statement partly reads: “On behalf of the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty John Elaigwu Odogbo, the Idoma Area Traditional Council, and the entire Idoma community, we extend our sincere gratitude to Governor Hyacinth Alia for his decisive action in restoring water supply to Otukpo and its surroundings.”
The mayor praised the governor for his leadership and the significant achievements in his less than two years in office. He also called on stakeholders to raise public awareness about the rehabilitation process and ensure proper pipeline installation across Otukpo for effective water distribution.
“I urge residents to protect all water installations from vandalism or any actions that could disrupt the water supply,” the mayor said.
Finally, the mayor used the occasion to extend warm Eid-el-Fitr greetings from the Och’Idoma and the Idoma Area Traditional Council to the Muslim community in Otukpo and surrounding areas. He encouraged them to use the festive season to foster love, generosity, and prayers for peace, security, and unity in Idoma land.