Residents of Commissioners’ Quarters in Damaturu, Yobe State, are expressing outrage over a severe water shortage affecting one of the capital’s key neighborhoods. The crisis emerged after a generator powering the primary public borehole for the area broke down, leaving many homes without running water.
Malam Abdul, a community elder, reported that tensions ran high among locals, with some wanting to stage a protest. However, he and other leaders managed to calm the situation by promising to bring their grievances to the appropriate authorities.
In the meantime, affluent residents have opened their private boreholes to neighbors, providing some relief. Malam Baba Karami, another local, noted that the water board had been previously alerted about the need to extend operational hours due to population growth. He added that the aging generator had been plagued by oil shortages and mechanical issues for years, with residents sometimes buying oil themselves to keep it running.
Reacting to the development, Hussaini Adamu, Director of Technical Services at the Yobe State Water Board Corporation, admitted that the agency faces numerous challenges, including limited resources. The corporation manages over 100 boreholes across Damaturu and nearby communities, making maintenance difficult. For the DA 48 borehole serving the affected area, a block engine and crankshaft have been procured for an overhaul, and other parts like bearings and pistons are available locally and will be installed soon.