The Kano State Government has removed the manager overseeing the Thomas Regional Water Scheme from duty with immediate effect following allegations of actions believed to have disrupted ongoing efforts to improve water supply across the state.
This development was announced in an official statement released on Monday by the state Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Dahiru Muhammad-Hashim.
According to the commissioner, the suspension will remain in place while authorities conduct a full investigation into claims involving deliberate damage and misuse of infrastructure installed to tackle the persistent shortage of water affecting many communities.
Muhammad-Hashim explained that the decision followed inspection visits and assessment exercises carried out across water facilities undergoing rehabilitation under the government’s recovery programme.
He stated that officials were alarmed to discover that infrastructure recently completed at one of the affected facilities had already suffered extensive loss before being officially put into operation.
During an inspection tour of both the Thomas and Ghari Regional Water Schemes, the commissioner said the findings revealed serious neglect and deterioration at installations expected to provide water services to residents in three local government areas.
He noted that several components essential to operations had been damaged or removed, including electrical connections linked to pumping and generating equipment, making the facilities incapable of functioning effectively.
Particular concern was raised over a power-related project at the Thomas facility which had reportedly been completed only a few months earlier but had already been stripped of key components before commissioning.
The commissioner also disclosed that personnel assigned to guard the premises were discovered engaging in farming activities within the facility instead of carrying out their protective responsibilities.
In response to the findings, the government directed that the manager in charge be suspended immediately while inquiries continue.
Muhammad-Hashim warned that if investigations confirm criminal wrongdoing or deliberate involvement in the deterioration of public infrastructure, the government would proceed with legal measures against those responsible.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to rebuilding and strengthening water supply systems across Kano, stressing that restoring access to reliable water remains a major priority.
The commissioner added that rehabilitation work is currently underway at other major facilities, including Chalawa and Tamburawa water schemes, as part of broader plans to revive regional water infrastructure throughout the state.
He expressed confidence that ongoing interventions would eventually improve water distribution and help reduce the long-standing challenges faced by residents.
While highlighting the government’s investment in public infrastructure, Muhammad-Hashim urged citizens to support the initiative by safeguarding facilities and reporting acts that threaten public property.
He emphasised that water infrastructure serves the collective interest of residents and called for greater public responsibility to ensure such assets remain protected and functional for future use.
