Ogun Government Issues Stern Warning to Road Contractors: “Avoid Damaging Water Pipelines or Face Consequences”

The Ogun State Government has issued a strong warning to road contractors handling various projects across the state, urging them to exercise caution to avoid damaging water pipelines during construction activities. The directive comes amid growing concerns over the disruption of water supply in several communities due to pipeline vandalism.

Naija247news gathered that the warning was issued during an emergency meeting between officials of the Ogun State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure and representatives of contracting firms. The state government emphasized that any contractor found guilty of damaging water pipelines would face severe penalties, including fines and possible termination of contracts.

According to Naija247news, the meeting was prompted by recent incidents in Abeokuta and Sagamu, where road construction activities led to the destruction of critical water infrastructure, leaving residents without access to potable water for days. “This is unacceptable. We cannot allow contractors to disrupt essential services while carrying out their duties,” said a senior official from the Ministry of Works.

Naija247news understands that the state government has also mandated contractors to liaise with the Ogun State Water Corporation before commencing any excavation or construction work near water pipelines. This, according to officials, will ensure that contractors are aware of the location of underground utilities and can take necessary precautions to avoid damaging them.

In addition to the warning, the government has announced plans to deploy monitoring teams to oversee road construction projects and ensure compliance with the new directive. Naija247news reports that these teams will work closely with the Water Corporation to identify high-risk areas and provide contractors with detailed maps of underground water infrastructure.

The move has been welcomed by residents, who have long complained about the frequent disruption of water supply due to construction activities. “We are happy that the government is finally taking action. Water is a basic necessity, and we cannot afford to have it cut off because of careless contractors,” said a resident of Abeokuta.

As Ogun State continues to invest in infrastructure development, the government’s latest directive underscores its commitment to balancing progress with the welfare of its citizens. Contractors have been urged to adhere strictly to the guidelines or face the full wrath of the law.

For now, all eyes are on the contracting firms as they navigate this new mandate, with the hope that such incidents will become a thing of the past.

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Reporting by Agnes Ekebuike Editor, Naija247news in Lagos, Nigeria.