Residents of Ikorodu and Alapere in Lagos State are struggling with irregular water supply and poor water quality, forcing many to depend on expensive private sources for daily needs.
According to findings by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), electricity reliability has a direct impact on water access, while concerns about contamination continue to drive demand for sachet and bottled water.
Also read: Lake Naivasha Flood Crisis Deepens as Waters Surge Inland
The challenges persist despite substantial investments by the Lagos State Government to provide potable water across the state.
Cinematographer John Taiwo, who resides in Ikorodu, described water as the “myth of life” and explained that his household supply depends entirely on electricity.
Taiwo uses an electric pump for all water needs and treats it before drinking.
Market trader Iya Ibeji noted that borehole scarcity during power outages forces residents to buy sachet water.
Teacher Idris Ayeni in Ikorodu reported that installing a private borehole resolved his water challenges, providing a reliable source for drinking and household use, reducing dependence on purchased water.
In Alapere, banker Olaoti Omowunmi said the water in her compound is “very bad,” only suitable for toilets, while businessman Femi Ogungbe reported soil contamination, prompting reliance on purchased water.
Some residents, like Janet Adeola, benefit from functional boreholes that supply clean water for all needs.
Also read: Osun Assembly Passes Marriage, Water Bills
Overall, water scarcity in Ikorodu and Alapere is exacerbated by electricity outages and seasonal depletion of wells, leaving many households dependent on costly alternatives, with sachet water remaining the preferred drinking option.
