Residents of Kakunka 1, a rural farming community in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, are grappling with a severe water crisis that has left them dependent on unsafe sources and exposed to health risks.
Located about 50 kilometres from Jos, the state capital, the community—also known as Adizagina—is largely agrarian, with most residents relying on farming for their livelihood. However, access to clean water remains a persistent challenge, particularly during the dry season.
An assessment of the area shows that residents often rely on a muddy pond shared with animals for drinking and domestic use. Women and children reportedly wake as early as 3 a.m. to fetch water, only to return with supplies considered unsafe for consumption.
The situation reflects a broader water scarcity problem affecting parts of Plateau State, including Jos North and Bassa LGAs, despite efforts by the state water board to improve supply.
Community leaders say the crisis has persisted for decades. The village head, Ogomo Galadima Langidu, described the situation as dire, noting that several residents have died from waterborne diseases linked to the contaminated water sources. He appealed to authorities to intervene urgently.
Women in the community say the burden falls heavily on them and their children. The women leader, Mary Samaila, said the lack of clean water has worsened living conditions and contributed to frequent illnesses among children.
Other residents echoed similar concerns, pointing to the absence of basic infrastructure such as healthcare facilities and electricity. Youth leaders in the community described the situation as neglect by successive administrations, despite repeated appeals for assistance.
They also warned that continued reliance on unsafe water sources could trigger a public health emergency if left unaddressed, especially during prolonged dry seasons when alternative sources dry up.
Residents further alleged that political promises of boreholes and basic amenities are often made during election periods but rarely fulfilled after elections.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official response from relevant government authorities regarding the community’s complaints.
