Reps to probe abandoned Ogun water, power projects

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the abandoned fishing, hydroelectric power, and water resource projects in Owiwi, Ogun State.

This decision followed the adoption of a motion moved on Tuesday by Mr Isiaka Ibrahim, the representative for Ifo/Ewekoro Federal Constituency in Ogun State.

According to Ibrahim, the Owiwi multipurpose regional water resource project was abandoned in 2011, leaving key components that were meant to be implemented unfinished.

He explained that the earth/concrete dam was designed for irrigation, fishing, water supply, and a 6 MW hydroelectric power facility.

The lawmaker expressed concern, saying, “The House is worried that a 17-meter-high, 900-meter-long soil gravity dam, with a reservoir capacity of 22.5 million cubic meters, a water treatment plant, an irrigation system covering around 10 km, and a 6 MW hydroelectric power generation capacity, could be abandoned.”

He added, “We are also concerned that, many years after partial delivery, the end users have not benefited, resulting in wasted investment. Urgent intervention is needed to unlock the project’s potential, mitigate health risks, and realise its full value.”

Following the adoption of the motion, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation to complete the first phase of the Owiwi regional water project, located in Ewekoro Local Government Area, Ogun State.

It also called on the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to utilise the 98 km of land in Ewekoro Local Government Area for agricultural and agro-processing opportunities.

Additionally, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Power to harness the 6 MW hydroelectric power generation potential from the project.

Finally, the House mandated its Committees on Water Resources, Agricultural Production and Services, and Appropriations to ensure each segment of the project is included in the 2025 budget estimate.