On September 20, 2024, Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) paid an advocacy visit to the Lagos State Water Corporation (LSWC). The purpose of this meeting was to explore ways CAPPA could support the LSWC in enhancing water access throughout the state and, most importantly, mainstream community perspectives in water governance.
The CAPPA team was received by key LSWC officials: Mrs. Peju Isola, Divisional Director of Customer, Commercial, and Community Relations; Mr. Olusegun Caulcrick, Director of Community Relations; Mr. Kayode Azeez Taiwo, Director of Customer Service; Mrs. Fashola Kehinde, Head of Corporate Affairs and Brand Management; and Mr. Jacob Olumide, Director of Commercial Billing.
CAPPA has been advocating for the development of functional public water systems in Lagos and the democratic management of water infrastructure to enhance community participation in decision-making processes. To this end, CAPPA has initiated community water parliaments across the state in areas lacking public water access. These parliaments empower locals to effectively communicate their challenges to water authorities and also draw the attention of regulators like the LWC to water issues in various communities.
During the meeting, CAPPA particularly highlighted its ongoing intervention in Iludun community, located in the Ifako-Ijaiye area of Lagos State, where residents are facing a severe water contamination crisis due to petroleum products leaking from underground pipes into their water supply. While recognising that LSWC does not bear primary responsibility for environmental remediation, CAPPA urged the corporation to prioritise public water supply to the community as an immediate relief measure.
Responding to the issues raised, the LSWC stated they were previously unaware of the specific situation in Iludun. However, they assured CAPPA that ongoing infrastructure projects in the state’s water sector would eventually extend to the community, addressing their water needs.
Also, the LSWC officials informed CAPPA of recent restructuring developments at the Corporation aimed at improving water service delivery to communities and relationships with watchdogs such as CAPPA. The discussions concluded with LSWC’s promise to ensure sustainable and equitable water access throughout Lagos State.
Following through on their commitment, LSWC officials visited Iludun to assess the community’s water issues days after CAPPA’s visit
In a subsequent meeting on October 2, 2024, the Corporation informed CAPPA that they were now evaluating the condition of underground water pipes in Iludun and neighbouring areas. This assessment aims to determine if the pipes are in fit condition and the possibility of extending water services to residents.
During this second meeting, CAPPA also briefed the Corporation about an upcoming community water parliament. Scheduled to occur during the Fourth Water Week of Action Against Water Privatisation in Africa, CAPPA invited the LSWC to participate in the parliament to enhance their community engagement program.