The Water Scheme of the Water Corporation of Oyo State has once again suffered a major setback following a fresh case of vandalism that left critical machinery and valuable equipment destroyed or carted away. The latest incident, which occurred overnight between Saturday and Sunday, has raised renewed concerns about the persistent attacks on the Ogbomoso Waterworks.
According to dependable sources, unknown vandals invaded the facility under the cover of darkness, stripping the premises of cables, metallic components, and other essential fittings. In a disturbing twist, the only night guard on duty was reportedly ambushed, overpowered, and tied to a post, giving the perpetrators free rein to ransack the installation.
Investigations revealed that this is not an isolated event. ScoopChase gathered that the Ogbomoso Waterworks has been vandalized multiple times in the past. A long-serving staff member disclosed that in his 20 years with the corporation, the facility has been broken into on no fewer than six occasions—yet no suspect has ever been apprehended.
He lamented the level of impunity surrounding the repeated attacks, stressing that the absence of arrests or deterrent measures has emboldened criminals to continue targeting the water scheme. He added that the corporation’s operations have suffered significantly each time the vandals struck.
In the most recent incident before this one, pipes in addition to cables were stolen, with no trace of where the items were taken or who might be responsible. The recurring thefts have continued to undermine the efforts of the Water Corporation to stabilize water supply across the ancient city.
This latest act of sabotage comes at a critical moment when the Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, is working tirelessly with the Water Corporation of Oyo State to revive the long-abandoned pipe-borne water system in the community. The project, which had made remarkable progress in recent months, was nearing completion before these unforeseen occurrences began to stall the momentum.
Public-spirited individuals had earlier joined forces with the Soun to raise funds and support the rehabilitation programme, which aimed to restore regular water supply to Ogbomoso and its environs. Although some parts of the metropolis have started to enjoy improved access to pipe-borne water, the repeated setbacks caused by vandalism threaten to slow down full restoration.
Officials fear that unless the culprits are apprehended and adequate security measures implemented, the long-awaited dream of uninterrupted pipe-borne water for residents could continue to face unnecessary delays.
You can get every of our news as soon as they drop on WhatsApp ...To get all news updates, Join our WhatsApp Group (Click Here)
