The Ondo State Government has defended the ongoing removal of old water pipelines across parts of the state, describing the exercise as part of efforts to modernise water infrastructure and improve access to safe and potable water.
The State Ministry of Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene made the clarification in response to a video report by Sahara Reporters, which raised concerns over the evacuation of the pipelines.
The Ministry explained that the affected pipelines, made of obsolete wrought iron and steel, had deteriorated significantly and exceeded their functional lifespan, posing potential risks to water quality, public health and efficient distribution.
It said their removal and replacement with modern, durable and health-compliant systems were necessary components of the comprehensive water infrastructure rehabilitation programme of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration.
The Ministry also dismissed suggestions of theft or illegal disposal of public assets, insisting that the exercise was duly authorised and intended to improve the state’s water supply network and service delivery.
As part of the broader intervention, the government disclosed that 300 million naira had been earmarked in the 2026 budget for the rehabilitation and solarisation of borehole water schemes under the Ikare Area Office.
It added that similar rehabilitation and modernisation projects would be extended to other communities across the state to improve access to clean water for domestic, sanitation and economic purposes.
While acknowledging the media’s role in promoting transparency and accountability, the Ministry urged journalists to seek clarification from relevant authorities before publishing reports that could misinform the public or misrepresent government projects.
It reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to public health, sustainable development and improved water infrastructure across Ondo State.
