By Abdullahi Lukman
Persistent water shortages across parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have been linked by sources to alleged diversion of supply and operational failures under the FCT Administration, though the claims have been denied by officials.
Sources familiar with water supply operations alleged that a significant portion of water from the Usuma Dam was diverted to Jordan Farms, a large agricultural facility in Ushafa reportedly owned by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, leaving reduced supply for the wider city.
One source claimed that as much as 70 per cent of the dam’s output was directed to the farm, an allegation the minister’s office has rejected.
The sources further attributed the crisis to disruptions at water treatment and distribution plants caused by power failures and delayed approval for diesel procurement.
They alleged that the facilities were left without electricity from the national grid and without diesel, reportedly valued at about ₦150 million, resulting in a shutdown of critical infrastructure and dry pipelines supplying the city.
Residents in communities near the Usuma Dam told reporters that while nearby households lacked regular water supply, the farm appeared to receive consistent water for irrigation.
Attempts to independently verify the volume of water supplied to the facility or access the farm were unsuccessful.
Responding to the allegations, the minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, dismissed claims of water diversion, questioning the lack of visible infrastructure to support such assertions and stating that water supply still exists in parts of Abuja.
Beyond the allegations, Abuja has faced a prolonged water crisis extending into early 2026, leaving thousands of residents dependent on private water vendors.
Authorities and sector observers have cited multiple contributing factors, including inadequate power supply to pumping stations, poor infrastructure maintenance, shortages of treatment chemicals and broader management challenges.
In early January, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) disconnected power supply to the FCT Water Board over more than 12 months of unpaid electricity bills, halting water production at key facilities, including the Lower Usuma Dam.
Following public outcry, AEDC restored power on January 18 on a conditional basis, giving the Water Board two weeks to submit and begin implementing a payment plan.
AEDC warned that failure to meet the agreed terms could result in another disconnection, raising concerns about the sustainability of water supply restoration across the FCT.
Source: Sahara Report
