By Olive Ejang
The paramount ruler of Bangem, HRH Chief Nnane Nnoko Emmanuel has called on government to open investigation on Bangem water scarcity, which has brought untold suffering to the population.
Chief Nnane was speaking at his palace recently where he prided that, Bangem has the best source of water in West Africa, and the second best in Africa after Kenya, as confirmed by a firm in Holland.
He said portable water in Bangem is also very rich in mineral content, and is over 96% free from radicals.
However, the Chief regretted that few years ago, the sum of 230 billion FCFA was allocated for the rehabilitation of Bangem water, especially with the increasing population.
“But a criminal contractor came here and use smaller pipes in the rehabilitation process. Now these pipes cannot effectively supply water to Bangem and its environs. Now we are suffering seriously”. Chief Nnane lamented.
The Paramount Ruler appealed with the government to intervene and help Bangem out of the water crisis else water borne diseases like cholera could affect the population.
He pleaded that with the coming of the Bangem-Nguti road, water is highly needed for the construction process, and the increasing population as well.
Chief Nnane also called on sons and daughters of Bangem and people of good will to come and invest in the town for development.
He said Bangem has the best climate in West Africa, and the soil is rich and fertile for food and cash crops.
The Chief added that God has planted peace in Bangem, since the Bakossi man hates blood. He said the peaceful nature of the town is a vital ingredient for investment.
The Divisional Delegate for Water Resources and Energy, Kupe Muanenguba, Jacob Akume Ewang confirmed that the source of Bangem’s pipe borne water from the Muanenguba Twin Lakes is so unique.
He also regretted that, besides the smaller pipes used in the rehabilitation process that has affected the flow of water, tomato farmers have been bursting pipes along the line to use water in their farmers.
Akume pleaded with the Mayor of Bangem Council, Ekungwe Kang Christopher to sanction perpetrators of this action, which contributes to the water crisis in Bangem.
It should be noted that on the 8th of December 2022 during the Second Ordinary Session dedicated to adopt the 2023 draft budget of Bangem council, Mayor Ekungwe said 396 million FCFA is need to bring a permanent solution to Bangem water.
He said the council is lobbying for funds from FEICOM and other sources. He pleaded with the population to be conscientious in the usage of water, as the council spends a lot of money to repair burst pipes.
