Senator Ishaku Abbo, who represented Adamawa North from 2019 to 2023, recently addressed the growing economic challenges in Nigeria, especially in Adamawa State. Speaking to journalists in Yola, he raised concerns about severe water shortages and rising costs, making it hard for residents to access this essential resource.

Abbo highlighted that in Adamawa, people are now rationing water, just like they have been rationing food due to the ongoing economic struggles. The senator pointed out that the situation has worsened because of unreliable electricity supply and high fuel prices, which make it costly for families to use generators. As a result, private borehole owners have raised their water prices, putting even more strain on residents.

“Natural resources abound in Adamawa State, River Benue is one of them. The government should review the water distribution system,” Abbo said, noting that currently, one ‘push-push’ truck of water containing ten 25-litre jerry cans sells between N1,500 and N2,500 in the state capital, depending on the specific location.

“So we are now not only rationing food but rationing water like people living in refugee camps while we are sitting at the bank of River Benue.

“This is irresponsible leadership,” Abbo stressed.

He criticized the Adamawa State Government for not providing a reliable water supply, placing the burden on private businesses instead. Abbo urged Governor Ahmadu Fintiri to focus on solving the water crisis rather than investing in projects like flyovers in Yola. He believes that ensuring access to water should be a priority for the government.