Residents of Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, are struggling with a severe water shortage following the actions of a controversial task force allegedly linked to Chief Dr. Longinus Amaobi, Chairman of the Lekki/Ibeju Lekki Zone Association of Table Water Producers and CEO of Apno Water. The crisis, which began on Sunday, November 24, 2024, has plunged the community into turmoil as disputes over the regulation and distribution of sachet water, popularly known as “pure water,” intensify.
Sources told Podium News that the conflict erupted when Chief Longinus, who also owns Apno Hotel, disrupted the operations of the Pure Water Drivers Association. Initially, he proposed increasing the price of sachet water from ₦300 to ₦400 per bag. While drivers reluctantly accepted the price hike, tensions escalated when Longinus issued a directive mandating that all drivers and distributors could only source water from one allocated distributor. This directive effectively stripped independent distributors of their autonomy, centralizing the water supply under a monopoly.
Independent distributors have condemned the mandate, calling it impractical and alleging it was a calculated move to monopolize the water distribution chain. “He has 40 trucks that he sold on hire purchase, and now that those drivers are free from him, he’s struggling to maintain control,” said a local distributor who requested anonymity. “When people refused to comply with his rules, he used his influence to force everyone under his grip.”
The situation deteriorated further on November 24 when Chief Longinus allegedly ordered sachet water producers in the area to suspend operations. While some producers defied the order, Longinus reportedly deployed a task force, including police officers, to enforce compliance. Witnesses recounted violent incidents, including the destruction of sachet water supplies and threats against distributors who attempted to continue sales.
The disruption has left residents without access to affordable sachet water, forcing many to rely on bottled water, which is significantly more expensive. The scarcity has sparked outrage among community members, who accuse Longinus of exploiting his position for personal gain.
“This man, who is there illegitimately, is holding the lives of everybody in Ibeju-Lekki hostage,” one frustrated resident told Podium News.
In response, community members are urging the Lagos State Government to investigate the allegations of abuse of power and the legitimacy of the task force’s actions. Many are also demanding immediate intervention to restore access to affordable water.
As of now, neither the Lagos State Government nor law enforcement agencies have issued an official statement regarding the crisis. Civil society groups and local leaders are calling for swift action to resolve the crisis and hold those responsible accountable.
The residents of Ibeju-Lekki remain in a precarious situation, struggling with the economic and social fallout of a water crisis that has deprived them of a basic necessity.
