Residents Demand Urgent Access to Clean Water
Youths in Mabudi, the headquarters of Langtang South Local Government Area of Plateau State, staged a protest on Wednesday over persistent water scarcity in the community.
The demonstrators warned that they could boycott future elections if authorities fail to address the worsening situation.
Hundreds of youths marched through major roads in the area wearing T-shirts with the inscription “No Water, No Vote.” They also carried placards demanding immediate access to potable water.
In addition, the protesters chanted slogans as they called on government officials to respond to the crisis.
Protesters Accuse Politicians of Neglect
A youth leader, Nanlir Gambo, said the protest aimed to draw attention to the urgent need for a sustainable water supply system in the community.
According to him, residents have suffered years of neglect despite repeated promises from politicians.
“This protest shows we are serious about our demands. We will not allow politicians to deceive us again during elections,” he said.
Gambo explained that many residents now depend on unsafe water sources for daily activities. He described the situation as dangerous and unacceptable.
Furthermore, he noted that women and children trek long distances every day in search of water.
Council Introduces Temporary Water Supply Measures
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman of Langtang South Local Government Area, Butko Iliya, said the council had already introduced temporary measures to reduce the hardship.
According to him, Council Chairman Nanfa Nbin has supplied water to communities through tankers since the dry season began.
He added that each village currently receives at least one tanker of water daily.
Iliya also revealed that the Plateau State Government had directed the council to intensify efforts toward solving the problem permanently.
Plateau Government Begins Intervention
Meanwhile, the Plateau State Ministry of Water Resources and Energy has started immediate and long-term interventions in the affected communities.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Lohnan V. Gambo, led a delegation to the area after an appeal from the local council chairman to Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.
During the visit, Gambo disclosed that the ministry had already begun a comprehensive geophysical survey in Mabudi and nearby communities.
He assured residents that the government remains committed to providing a lasting solution to the water crisis.
Traditional Leaders Commend Government Response
Council Secretary Nanman Domtau appreciated the state government for responding quickly to the concerns raised by residents.
Similarly, the Galadima of Mabudi, Ringjul Dashe, described water as essential for survival and praised the intervention efforts.
Nigeria continues to face serious water supply challenges despite its large water resources. According to UNICEF, millions of Nigerians still lack access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation services.
