By Abdullahi Lukman
Residents of Ibilupo Compound in Beere, Ibadan North-West Local Government Area of Oyo State, have regained access to potable water following the completion of a community-funded borehole project aimed at addressing decades of water scarcity in the area.
The project, facilitated by the Mogaji of the compound, Chief Ademola Adediran, has brought relief to hundreds of residents who previously depended on distant communities for their daily water needs.
For years, residents endured long journeys to fetch water from neighbouring areas, exposing them to health risks and other challenges associated with the lack of safe drinking water.
Community members said the situation contributed to the spread of water-borne diseases, while some families were forced to relocate in search of better living conditions.
Speaking on the project, Adediran said the initiative was undertaken to alleviate the hardship faced by residents, especially women and children who often travelled several kilometres to obtain water for domestic use.
According to him, residents previously sourced water from communities including Agbadagbudu, Oke-Are, Oranyan and Alekuso, a situation that exposed them to accidents and health complications linked to contaminated water sources.
He noted that the borehole has significantly improved living conditions in the compound by providing reliable access to clean water and reducing health concerns associated with unsafe water consumption.
Adediran also disclosed plans to rehabilitate ageing and dilapidated buildings within the historic compound. He said efforts are underway to mobilise support from indigenes at home and abroad to restore damaged structures and preserve the community’s cultural heritage.
On security, the Mogaji said the community continues to enjoy peace and works closely with security agencies to maintain law and order. He described residents as peaceful and law-abiding, noting that the area has remained free from major criminal activities.
He further commended the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, for fostering peace and development across the city.
Residents who spoke on the development praised Adediran’s leadership, describing the borehole project as a major milestone that has improved access to clean water and renewed hope among members of the community.