After being moribund for seven years, the Oferekpe Mega Water Scheme in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State has finally resumed operations, marking a significant milestone in the state’s infrastructure revival.
Constructed during the administration of former Governor Martin Elechi, the multi-billion naira water scheme and its associated pipe production company fell into disrepair during the tenure of Engr. David Umahi. The facilities were vandalized and looted by criminals, rendering them inactive for years.
However, Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration has revived the two critical projects, bringing the Oferekpe Water Scheme back online and resuming operations at the pipe production company.
The manager of the water scheme, Eric Alobu, explained that the plant has started skeletal operations, with water being pumped from the connected river. He assured that the facility processes some of the best-quality water in the region.
“The last time this water treatment plant worked was in 2018. Today marks the beginning of its operations after years of downtime. We are currently filing the lines and washing the system as part of the preparation for full operations,” Alobu stated.
He added that the plant is poised to supply water to Abakaliki, the state capital, all year round.
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During a media tour of the facility, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Jude Okpor, revealed that the current administration has invested over N200 million to reactivate the water scheme.
“Even when this scheme was completed in 2018, it was never operational until now. Almost all the automation was vandalized and looted, but our joy today is that it is back online,” Okpor said.
He expressed optimism that the scheme, once fully operational, could serve the entire state.
“Our only challenge now is ensuring that the pipeline from the water scheme to the reservoir in Abakaliki is clear,” he added.
In addition to reviving the water scheme, the pipe production company is now producing various pipes for water reticulation, a key element for ensuring consistent water supply across Ebonyi State
