SaharaReporters on Wednesday reported how soldiers, corps members and civilians living at the 14 Brigade of the Nigerian Army Barracks in Ohafia, lamented that they celebrated New Year’s Day without water to cook.
Following a SaharaReporters’ report, the Nigerian Army has admitted that there is a lack of water in its 14 Brigade Ohafia Barracks in Abia State, in the Southeast region of the country.
SaharaReporters on Wednesday reported how soldiers, corps members and civilians living at the 14 Brigade of the Nigerian Army Barracks in Ohafia, lamented that they celebrated New Year’s Day without water to cook.
Speaking with SaharaReporters, some of the residents of the army barracks lamented that while many soldiers and civilians living in the barracks found it hard to get rice as hardship hit harder in the country, those who managed to get rice could not cook on New Year’s Day as there was no water in the barracks at all.
One of the sources said that sometimes, they would have water supply for only about four hours, during which time, women would fight naked to get the water.
Confirming the report, the Nigerian Army in a statement issued on Thursday by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Omale Innocent Prince, said that water supply had been a long-time challenge in the barracks, but noted that efforts were being made to rectify the situation.
Prince stated, “The Headquarters 14 Brigade has noted with great concern the report by Sahara Reporters being circulated online on how soldiers and family members lament of lack of water to cook during the yuletide season in 14 Brigade Ohafia Barracks in Abia State.
“The Brigade wishes to acknowledge that the issue of water reticulation in the said barracks has been challenging as several efforts have been made in the past to alleviate the impact it has had on the living conditions of soldiers and their family members.
“It is worth mentioning that since the appointment of the current Brigade Commander, he has been proactive in his commitment to addressing the issue of bad boreholes in the barracks.
“Through his diligent efforts, some bad boreholes were repaired to ensure a relatively stable supply of water to the barracks.
“Additionally, the duration of the power supply was also increased by utilizing generating sets to support the pumping of water to further enhance the living conditions for soldiers and their families.
“These initiatives demonstrate the commitment of the Brigade to prioritize the welfare and well-being of personnel and families in the barracks.”
“Further efforts are currently underway to improve the availability of water and other social amenities within the barracks as the Brigade is working diligently to ensure that the living conditions at 14 Brigade Ohafia are convenient and comfortable for both soldiers and their family members.
“The Brigade recognizes the importance of addressing these challenges promptly and remains dedicated to the welfare of its personnel and their families.
“We will continue to prioritize the improvement of living conditions within our barracks. We appreciate the understanding and support of all as we work towards enhancing the living standards at 14 Brigade Ohafia,” he added.