Residents kick as water scarcity hits Damaturu
Residents of Damaturu Experience Water Scarcity
Damaturu, Yobe State — Residents of Commissioners’ Quarters in Damaturu are expressing growing concern over a severe water scarcity affecting the area, which is home to many government officials and prominent figures.
The shortage has been attributed to the failure of a generator that powers a major public borehole. Malam Abdul, a community elder, reported increasing frustration among residents due to the prolonged lack of water.
“Many were angry and wanted to protest about the situation, but we managed to calm them down and promised to voice their concerns appropriately,” he said. To alleviate some of the distress, wealthier residents have allowed their neighbors to access water from their private boreholes.
Another local, Malam Baba Karami, mentioned that previous complaints had been lodged with water authorities about the necessity to extend operational hours for the borehole in light of the increasing population. He noted that the aging generator has suffered from recurrent mechanical issues and shortages of engine oil for several years.
“Some residents have even volunteered to purchase engine oil to keep the generator running and prevent a total breakdown in water supply,” he added.
In response to these concerns, Hussaini Adamu, the Director of Technical Services at the Yobe State Water Board Corporation, acknowledged the challenges faced by the agency, including limited operational resources. “The corporation manages more than 100 boreholes in Damaturu and surrounding communities,” he said, emphasizing that maintaining these facilities has proven difficult under current constraints.
Regarding the DA 48 borehole, which serves the affected area, Adamu confirmed that the necessary components for the generator’s overhaul, including a block engine and crankshaft, have already been procured. He indicated that other required parts such as bearings and pistons are available locally and will be installed soon.
