For over 50 years, residents of Gawu Community in the Kuje Area Council, Abuja, have struggled without access to clean drinking water, a crisis affecting more than 5,000 people, including women and children.
The dire situation has led to severe health risks and loss of lives due to waterborne diseases.
According to Tracka, a public accountability platform in an X post on Friday, the community has relied on the same contaminated water source for generations, with no alternative for domestic use.
The head of the community described the impact, saying, “Something as basic as clean water is what will stop deaths in our community.”
Mrs Maryam, a long-time resident, echoed the concern, stating, “We have been using this water since I was born in this community.
“I saw my parents using the same stream water for domestic activities. I’m now married, and my children are using it too. This is the only source of water we have in the community.
“Despite its appearance, we keep using it because we have no other choice.”
Residents say the polluted water is the primary cause of illness among both young and old. Many children suffer from preventable diseases linked to poor water quality, worsening the already dire situation.
They have now issued an urgent plea to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Senator representing the FCT, Hajiya Ireti Kingibe, and House of Representatives member for Abuja South Federal Constituency, Hon. Abdulrahman Ajiya, to intervene immediately.
The community believes that clean water is a basic necessity that should not be out of reach.
They urge the government to take swift action to prevent further loss of lives and ensure a healthier future for residents.
