By Lucky Akoza
Nearly after 30 years of neglect and underutilisation, the Otor-Owhe Water Reticulation System in Isoko North Local government area of Delta State has been fully rehabilitated and restored through the intervention of the Member representing Isoko North and South Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Engr. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko.
The project has brough
t back reliable access to clean and safe water for residents of Otor-Owhe and surrounding communities.
The water facility, a sub-regional scheme originally constructed by the Federal Government of Nigeria with technical assistance from Israeli engineers, comprises an overhead concrete reservoir with a storage capacity of 270 cubic metres.
The Water Reticulation system was designed to serve Otor-Owhe and its neighbouring communities but gradually fell into disrepair over the years.
The decline of the system was attributed to its heavy reliance on public electricity and diesel-powered generators, obsolete distribution infrastructure, frequent equipment failures, and rising operational costs, and erratic power supply further worsened the situation, eventually rendering the facility non-functional.
The intervention involved a complete redesign and comprehensive overhaul of the entire facility such as drilling of new boreholes, installation of hybrid submersible pumps for improved efficiency, and replacement of outdated asbestos cement pipes with modern, hydraulically modelled pipelines that meet current engineering and safety standards.
The water system is now powered by solar energy, eliminating dependence on public electricity and diesel generators, an innovation that guarantees a steady daily water supply at no cost to the community, and ensuring sustainability and ease of maintenance.
The revitalised scheme now features more than 100 strategically located water discharge points across Otor-Owhe.
Pipelines have also been extended into several streets, enabling households and businesses to connect directly to the system and enjoy potable water within their premises.
Residents have expressed widespread relief and satisfaction, as the project has eliminated the burden of purchasing fuel to pump water, trekking long distances, or relying on unsafe wells. Many households and business owners are now taking advantage of the improved system by connecting directly to the water network.
Speaking on the development, Mr. Isaiah Ikede, who oversees the Otor-Owhe Water Board, praised Rep. Ukodhiko for his foresight and commitment. He recalled that the facility had remained abandoned for decades due to prohibitive operational costs, noting that its revival reflects genuine dedication to community development.
According to him, the people of Otor-Owhe remain deeply grateful for the intervention, which has significantly improved their quality of life.
The restoration of the Otor-Owhe Water Reticulation System stands as a clear example of people-centred leadership, where abandoned public infrastructure is revived, tangible dividends of democracy are delivered, and everyday living conditions are meaningfully improved.
