By Nwogha Ndubuisi,Abakaliki
Gunmen attacked Ezilo Water Scheme in Ezilo community, Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State injuring two security personnel and vandalising critical infrastructure.,wa
The Commissioner for Water Resources, Mr Nka Chinedem Magnus, disclosed this yesterday, while reacting to reports of destruction of water facilities that circulated on social media last week.
According to him, the incident occurred on Easter Sunday night when unknown criminals stormed the facility, shot two security guards, one of whom was also macheted and cut vital cables, disrupting operations at the scheme.
He described the attack as a deliberate act of sabotage aimed at undermining the state government’s efforts to address water challenges.
Magnus noted that the victims are currently receiving treatment in the hospital, while security agencies have been notified.
He added that he had also engaged the traditional leadership of the community to seek collaboration, insisting that the perpetrators are likely locals and not outsiders.
The commissioner assured that government has commenced immediate steps to repair the damaged infrastructure, but is prioritizing the reinforcement of security at the facility to prevent a recurrence.
“We are re-evaluating and strengthening our security architecture to ensure those responsible are apprehended,” he said.
On water supply in the state capital, Magnus acknowledged delays in meeting earlier timelines but reaffirmed the government’s commitment to delivering potable water to residents.
He explained that installation works at the water scheme are nearly completed, with the low-lift system at about 95 to 98 percent completion.
Testing of the facility, he said, is expected to begin soon.
Magnus expressed optimism that the water project would be delivered within the revised timeline, noting that if the April deadline is missed, it would not extend beyond the first or second week of May.
He revealed that three water schemes are expected to come on stream within three years as part of the government’s broader plan to revitalise water supply across the state.